Understanding the truMRK Assessment Scores

truMRK provides structured assessment scores that help stakeholders understand how clearly and credibly sustainability related communications present their claims.

We assess the quality of communication, not sustainability performance itself.

Our reviews apply to a range of content types, including sustainability reports, ESG disclosures, websites, product claims, marketing materials and investor communications.

Each review results in three separate assessment scores, reflecting how well the content performs across evidence, language and contextual transparency.

What the Scores Represent

Every piece of content we review receives three individual scores, each on a scale from 1 to 5.

These scores provide an independent view of how responsibly environmental and ESG related information is communicated within the content assessed.

They are designed to:

Highlight strengths in clarity and substantiation
Identify areas where transparency can be strengthened
Support internal benchmarking and continuous improvement
Provide stakeholders with a structured, independent perspective

There is no pass or fail threshold.

The Three Assessment Areas

1. Claim Substantiation

Are claims supported with verifiable, credible evidence?

We assess:

The presence and quality of supporting data
Use of recognised standards or certifications
Transparency of baselines, methodologies and assumptions
Consistency in reported figures

This score reflects the strength and reliability of disclosure within the content reviewed.

2. Language Check

Is the tone clear, proportionate and responsible?

We evaluate:

Clarity of wording
Avoidance of vague or absolute claims
Proportionate framing of achievements
Balanced presentation of progress and limitations

This score reflects how responsibly claims are expressed.

3. Context and Credibility

Does the content provide sufficient context for stakeholders to form a fair view?

We consider:

Treatment of material sustainability issues
Alignment between ambition, strategy and performance
Disclosure of challenges and limitations
Coherence of the overall sustainability narrative

This score reflects the completeness and integrity of communication

The Scoring Scale

Each assessment area is scored from 1 to 5.

Score	What It Means
5	Very strong, clear, proportionate and comprehensive communication
4	Strong communication with minor areas for refinement
3	Moderate communication with identifiable gaps in clarity, evidence or context
2	Weak communication with significant gaps or inconsistencies
1	Very weak communication with deficiencies in clarity, substantiation or contextual completeness

The scores reflect the quality and completeness of communication within the specific content reviewed. They do not represent a judgement of overall sustainability performance.

How Scores Are Determined

Scores are assigned through a structured, evidence based methodology led by independent subject matter experts.

We assess the content as presented at the time of review, referencing relevant regulatory guidance and recognised reporting standards where appropriate.

Our framework is designed to ensure consistency, objectivity and transparency across every assessment.

Why This Matters

Sustainability communications across all formats are under increasing scrutiny from regulators, investors and the public.

Clear, proportionate and evidence based claims build trust. Overstatement, omission or weak substantiation can undermine it.

The truMRK assessment scores provide a structured way to understand how responsibly sustainability communications are presented, supporting accountability and continuous improvement.