My secondment at Lodz University of Technology, carried out between 1 and 30 August 2026 within the STAR project, was a valuable opportunity to better understand how sustainability reporting can be approached through both academic research and formal standardization, particularly in relation to the quality, comparability and traceability of sustainability information. It also offered a valuable context for reflecting on the role that national, European and international standards can play in supporting organizations in the transition from general ESG commitments to structured and evidence-based reporting practices.
A significant part of my activity was dedicated to the development of Part 2 of the STAR brochure, “Sustainability Reporting and Formal Standardization”, which examines the use of international and European standards as strategic instruments for improving sustainability reporting practices. This work involved the analysis of scientific literature, regulatory developments and relevant sustainability reporting frameworks, as well as the development of a mapping annex designed to correlate sustainability reporting requirements and datapoints with applicable European and international standards.
From a professional perspective, the secondment strengthened my understanding of the contribution that a national standardization body can bring to research and innovation projects. It also confirmed the importance of dialogue between academic partners and standardization organizations in developing practical, reliable and transferable knowledge in the field of sustainability reporting.
For me, this mobility represented not only a project activity, but also an important learning experience, contributing to a broader understanding of how standardization can support the credibility, consistency and practical implementation of sustainability-related information within the European context.
Irina Alexandra Bălăoi
Partner Relations Expert
ASRO – Organismul Național de Standardizare
Romania
