ERA launches Sustainability KPI Framework version 3.0

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The European Rental Association (ERA) has released Version 3.0 of its Sustainability KPI Framework, designed to support rental companies in adopting structured and CSRD-aligned sustainability reporting practices.

The updated framework, developed with epi Consulting, aligns with current and emerging EU sustainability reporting requirements, including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and related ESRS and VSME standards. It builds on earlier versions launched in 2021 and updated in 2023.

Version 3.0 was developed through consultations with European rental companies to identify sustainability topics most relevant to the sector and to select indicators suited to transparent and comparable reporting across companies of various sizes.

The framework is divided into four KPI lists to accommodate different company profiles:

• Basic KPIs for SMEs
• Comprehensive KPIs for SMEs
• Basic KPIs for Large Rental Companies
• Comprehensive KPIs for Large Rental Companies

Companies are advised to choose one list based on their size, reporting maturity, and ambition. The Basic KPIs cover fundamental topics such as Scope 1 and 2 emissions, waste generation, and workforce data. The Comprehensive KPIs extend to Scope 3 emissions, more detailed workforce and supply chain metrics, and additional indicators aligned with sustainability practices.

Supporting materials include an Excel spreadsheet categorising indicators into environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas, as defined by the ESRS.

A set of guidance slides explains the development of the framework, the structure of each KPI list, selection recommendations, and expected future changes in sustainability reporting.

With increasing expectations from investors, customers, regulators, and employees for measurable sustainability performance, the ERA said its framework offers rental companies a methodical approach to integrating relevant KPIs into their reporting processes.