Whether you’re just starting to explore digital sustainability reporting or preparing for full taxonomy integration, this guide walks you through the key steps for implementing the GRI Sustainability Taxonomy.

Based on GRI’s official release and supported by our hands-on experience, these actions will help you translate the GRI Standards into structured, machine-readable data.

Start by reviewing the official taxonomy package provided by GRI. It includes:

  • Entry point schema file (.xsd)
  • Core and sector/topic-specific elements
  • Linkbases for labels, validations, and definitions
  • Supporting documentation and release notes

Prepare your internal system or select a partner tool that supports:

  • XBRL-compatible tagging and validation
  • Import/export of XML or XBRL instance documents
  • Multilingual labels and unit registry
  • Optional: APIs for data extraction or integration

Ensure that your reporting team understands both the GRI Standards and how each disclosure maps to taxonomy tags.

Using your reporting content, begin mapping each section to a corresponding taxonomy element.
For example:

GRI DisclosureTaxonomy elementData type
2-1: Legal Name
2-6: Activities
3-2: Impacts
gri:LegalName
gri:DescriptionOfActivitiesTextBlock
gri:ImpactsOnEconomyEnvironmentAndPeopleTextBlock
string
text block
text block

Once mapping is complete, apply the tags in your chosen tool or platform.

  • Enter values for each element, following required formats (e.g., dates, enumerations)
  • Run validation to detect any missing or malformed fields
  • Review validation messages and resolve flagged issues

Example validation logic:

  • gri:StartDateOfSustainabilityReporting is mandatory. If empty, an error will occur.
  • gri:OwnershipNature must match a predefined enumeration list.

After successful validation, export the data in your preferred format:

  • XBRL instance document for regulatory compliance or archival
  • XML or JSON for integration with your reporting platform, dashboards, or public disclosures

If you’re using sector-specific Standards (e.g., Oil & Gas, Agriculture) or additional topics, extend the mapping by:

  • Loading sector entry points in your tool
  • Tagging additional disclosures (e.g., methane emissions, land use)
  • Ensuring unit and validation logic compliance

Receive in-depth guidance

Consult the GRI Sustainability Taxonomy Architecture and implementation guide for more information

Need help?