While the Omnibus Package has exempted many SMEs from mandatory CSRD reporting (particularly those with fewer than 250 employees or under €50M turnover), voluntary ESG reporting still provides significant strategic value.
Here’s how SMEs can benefit from ESG reporting even if it’s not mandatory:
1. Build Trust with Investors & Financial Institutions.
2. Strengthen B2B Partnerships.
3. Enhance Brand & Market Differentiation.
4. Track Internal Impact & Drive Efficiency.
5. Prepare for Future Regulations.
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Aspect |
ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) |
CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) |
What It Is |
A broad concept referring to non-financial performance pillars. |
A legal reporting framework and regulation in the EU. |
Purpose |
Guide responsible business practices and investment decisions. |
Mandate how and what companies must report about ESG topics. |
Scope |
Voluntary or guided by market/standards unless regulated. |
Legally required sustainability reporting in the EU. |
Who Uses It |
Companies, investors, analysts, rating agencies, stakeholders. |
Large companies in the EU (and eventually non-EU firms). |
Standardization |
Diverse: includes GRI, SASB, TCFD, CSRD etc. |
Strictly follows European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). |
Legal Status |
Not a law; a set of thematic areas. |
EU law, enforced through national legislation (e.g., in Germany). |
ESG reporting is the process by which companies disclose information about their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance and risks to stakeholders—such as investors, regulators, customers, and the public.
It involves publishing data, strategies, policies, and outcomes on topics such as:
The goal is to increase transparency, track progress, and demonstrate how ESG factors are integrated into the company’s strategy and operations.
In Germany
German companies are subject to CSRD, and before that, the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD).
ESG disclosure is required if your company meets the size criteria or is part of a larger group.
🌍 In Other Regions
UK: TCFD-aligned reporting is mandatory for large companies.
US: SEC has proposed climate-related disclosures, but ESG reporting is not yet universally mandatory.
„Die Verordnung vereinfacht also die Berichtspflichten, schafft sie jedoch nicht ab.“