ESG Talk Bonus Episode: When Sustainability Meets Financial Reporting
Apr 25, 2025
Charley Nelson, an environmental policy expert managing ESG reporting at Etsy, dives into the intersection of sustainability and financial reporting. He discusses the challenges of integrating sustainability practices with traditional financial metrics. The conversation highlights the critical role of CO2E in greenhouse gas accounting and the importance of collaboration across disciplines. Charley also addresses the shifting landscape of regulations, the complexities of disclosures, and shares amusing anecdotes about unique Etsy items and their new 'gift mode' feature.
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Charley's Unique Career Path
- Charley Nelson transitioned from a technical accounting role to managing ESG reporting at Etsy.
- He synergizes sustainability knowledge with financial reporting practices within the company.
ESG and Financial Reporting Overlap
- ESG reporting shares key reporting principles with financial reporting, such as reliable data and well-documented sources.
- Despite perceptions, the two disciplines overlap significantly in reporting requirements and processes.
Financial Data Drives ESG Reporting
- ESG data often depends on financial data, especially for Scope 3 emissions related to supplier spend.
- Close collaboration with financial teams streamlines ESG reporting timelines and data accuracy.