When can an organization report in reference to the GRI standards instead of in accordance with them?

An organization can report in reference to the GRI standards instead of in accordance with them when it cannot fulfill some of the requirements set out in Section 3 of the GRI Standards. This situation arises when an organization is unable to comply with all the applicable criteria for reporting in accordance with GRI due to specific limitations, whether they are resource-based, contextual, or related to data availability. By reporting in reference, the organization acknowledges the GRI standards framework while clarifying the limitations of its reporting.

This approach allows for a level of transparency and maintains the intent of GRI standards, ensuring that stakeholders are informed about the organization’s sustainability efforts, despite the inability to fully meet all requirements. Organizations that cannot report in full adherence can still demonstrate their commitment to GRI principles by specifying the areas they were unable to fully comply with, along with the reasons.

The other choices reflect different conditions that don't align with the core principle of reporting in reference. Completing all requirements suggests a situation where the organization could report in accordance with GRI, and fully integrating GRI into business strategy or proving stakeholder engagement does not inherently justify a reference reporting approach unless non-compliance with certain requirements is also present.