Canonical ESG Reference Model (CERM)

The Canonical ESG Reference Model (CERM) defines a neutral, framework-independent structural architecture for modelling sustainability data.

CERM provides a stable semantic foundation for representing metrics, targets, trajectories, risks, and supporting evidence in a form that can be reused consistently across sustainability reporting frameworks and regulatory regimes.

Architectural Role

CERM operates at the structural layer of Canonical ESG. It defines how sustainability information is modelled — not what must be disclosed and not how regulation applies.

What CERM Does

• Defines canonical structures for sustainability data and assertions
• Separates data modelling from disclosure interpretation
• Enables reuse of the same structured dataset across multiple standards
• Supports traceability, lineage, and audit transparency
• Preserves structural stability through explicit versioning discipline

What CERM Does Not Do

• Define disclosure requirements
• Encode regulatory or jurisdictional logic
• Determine materiality thresholds
• Interpret external standards
• Assert compliance with any reporting framework

CERM v1 Documentation

• Design Principles
• Architecture
• Reference Model

Current version: v1.0.0

CERM is a non-authoritative reference architecture. It is not endorsed by, does not interpret, and does not represent any sustainability reporting standard, regulator, or jurisdictional authority.