Bodies around the world are currently looking at the task of coming up with a new way of reporting for companies.

The International Integrated Reporting Committee (IIRC) and South Africa's Integrated Reporting Committee (IRC) are in the process of developing a framework that can be used by companies in formulating an annual integrated report.

The bodies hope to have exposure drafts out by the end of the year. Cynics might say they deserve our good luck and best wishes in hitting out a suitable framework in such a short time period. But, actually, there is plenty of material that is already available and to which these bodies will no doubt take their cue. There are also a few new books around on the subject, along with some integrated reporting "gurus" newly sprung from the woodwork. 

So the world will get guidance on how to do an integrated report.
But will it really change anything?

For sure an integrated report will highlight the impact a company has on its environment and the community in which it operates.  It will give a holistic view of how the company is performing beyond the narrowness of the financial figures.

But will integrated reporting help the plight of the planet? Will it help to ease the ongoing destruction of the swamps, forests and biodiversity? 

There is a chance that, over time, integrated reporting will assist in making businesses more aware and mindful of their negative impacts on the environment.

There is that chance indeed. But can anything really change while humans continue to think they are superior beings and that nature and animals take second place?