Since its inception in 2000, CDP has evolved from a simple reporting framework into a driving force for corporate sustainability action. Initially, it focused on assessing how thoroughly companies disclosed their climate-related data, with early scores primarily measuring the completeness of responses and the level of detail provided. Over the past 25 years, CDP scores have matured into an evaluation of a company’s actions to address environmental impacts. Thus, achieving a high CDP score has become increasingly more difficult and complex.
The 2024 disclosure cycle saw significant changes to all aspects of CDP – a transformed questionnaire with six integrated modules and three separate environmental modules on the climate, forest and water themes, a new reporting platform, and an extended submission timeline. As companies prepare for the 2025 disclosure cycle, many questions remain about how to best respond to the new integrated CDP format, and what type of further developments are expected.
In February 2025, EcoAct, alongside our parent company Schneider Electric hosted a joint webinar with CDP and Laing O’Rourke, exploring what to expect from, and how to prepare for, CDP in 2025. Here are five key takeaways from the webinar to help you master CDP in 2025 and earn the best score possible.
Companies will be reassured to learn that 2025 will be a year of stability for CDP reporting. After the extensive changes in 2024, maintaining consistency is CDP’s focus for 2025. During the webinar, CDP confirmed that the questionnaire and platform will see minimal changes, allowing companies to build on their 2024 efforts without adapting to new systems.
The reporting timeline will remain similar to 2024, with the portal opening for disclosures the week of May 21, 2025, and the scoring deadline set for the week September 15, 2025. Therefore, in 2025, companies can focus on improving their 2024 response, without the added pressure of developing answers for numerous new questions.
Beginning data collection and drafting early is crucial for a successful CDP disclosure. Companies are encouraged to begin their preparations well in advance of the reporting period. This includes developing data collection and response strategies (see takeaway #3), engaging internal and external stakeholders whose buy-in is necessary for CDP success, and setting up necessary processes. Early preparation allows for multiple iterations of answers, and thus the highest chance of achieving a top score.
Late submissions are not scored, which can have significant reputational implications, as can disclosing untrue or incomplete information. Companies must ensure that they have ample time to address any challenges that may arise when developing responses and that disclosures are comprehensive and accurate to avoid potential reputational pitfalls.
Strategic data collection and response development are essential for effective CDP reporting. Companies can begin preparations now by identifying the data required for 2025, using the 2024 questionnaire as a reference. Even the simplest CDP questionnaire requires responding to at least 100 questions, the majority of which either require explicit data points, or are informed by data.
Data is often dispersed between different teams and owners within companies, so understanding how to access, analyze and amalgamate the relevant data for each section of the questionnaire will be central to developing a response.
One best practice is to focus on developing a high-quality response to the integrated modules and one environmental module (climate, forests, or water) before attempting disclosures across multiple themes. Companies that strengthen their CDP data collection strategies will also find mandatory reporting easier, as CDP continues to align with other frameworks—most notably CSRD’s ESRS E1 requirements in 2025.
While there is growing interest in biodiversity and plastics reporting, as exemplified by the TNFD recommendations, ESRS E4 within CSRD and SFDR, these modules will remain unscored for 2025. However, companies are encouraged to start preparing for these disclosures as they are expected to be scored in subsequent years. By proactively integrating biodiversity and plastics considerations into your sustainability strategies, you can stay ahead of future reporting requirements and demonstrate leadership in these emerging areas.
CDP disclosures should be viewed as more than just a compliance exercise – they are an opportunity for internal transformation. By leveraging the insights gained from CDP reporting, companies can identify areas for improvement, drive operational efficiencies, and enhance their overall sustainability performance.
Rather than treating CDP as a one-time exercise, companies should use the questionnaire as a roadmap to align their sustainability efforts with broader business objectives. By identifying disclosure and action gaps organizations can strengthen stakeholder trust, attract investment, and achieve long-term business success.
Mastering CDP in 2025 requires a strategic approach to data collection, early preparation, and internal alignment. By treating CDP as a continuous improvement tool, companies can earn a strong score and advance their broader sustainability goals.
To earn your best score in 2025, get in touch to see how EcoAct’s experts can provide guidance, insights and feedback on improving your response.
For all the 2024 updates, timelines and the future of CDP, download your copy of the 2024 CDP Factsheet today.
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