Greenwashing, evidence & assurance · Core
Proxy data
Also called: secondary estimate
ELI5
Substitute data used when specific data is unavailable.
Used in conversation
“The control owner needs to resolve the exception around proxy data.”
Pitch context
You will see “Proxy data” in sustainability reports, impact decks, climate plans and assurance materials when the discussion reaches greenwashing, evidence & assurance.
Why it matters: In greenwashing, evidence & assurance, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.
Caution
Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.
Connected terms
- Secondary dataThe search label “Proxy data” can route to both entries.
Sources & evidence · 4
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- IFRS Foundation / International Sustainability Standards Board — IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 Sustainability Disclosure StandardsDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- GHG Protocol — Standards and GuidanceDirect source · institutional · checked 2026-08-16
- International Organization for Standardization — ISO Net Zero Guidelines and related workDirect source · institutional · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Federal Trade Commission — Advertising and Marketing GuidanceDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16