CSRD in the omnibus procedure: simplifications are coming – relevance remains

The EU is planning significant simplifications in the omnibus procedure for the CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) and other regulations such as the CSDDD (Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive), CBAM (European COs border adjustment system) and EU taxonomy.
Higher thresholds, less mandatory data, ‘limited assurance’ and a narrower target group, ‘stop-the-clock’ has been decided and EFRAG is consulting on the simplified ESRS. At the same time, the Commission recommends the voluntary VSME standard for companies not subject to CSRD.

But anyone who now assumes that sustainability requirements will become less important is mistaken. At the same time, in a letter from President Christine Lagarde to the European Parliament, the ECB points out that excessive descoping would impair the availability of company-specific data and thus weaken risk analysis in the Eurosystem—new instruments such as the ‘Climate Factor’ planned for H2/2026 require robust, consistent ESG data. In addition, ESG (environmental, social and governance) data remains relevant for the financial markets and is requested when granting loans.

What we advise our clients: Companies should use the time they have gained to strategically and resiliently anchor sustainability. This includes identifying material issues, establishing future-proof data and process structures that go beyond mere compliance, and operationalising the strategy through clear goals, responsibilities and key performance indicators (KPIs). SMEs can use the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs (VSME) as a pragmatic starting point; in addition, we recommend a lean materiality logic to guide priorities and resource allocation. Even companies for which ‘stop-the-clock’ creates additional time should continue to work on this issue: a sound strategy process and the development of valid ESG data require lead time. Those who take these steps early on will be better prepared for future regulatory requirements and can more effectively realise the potential of sustainability – greater resilience, competitiveness and employer attractiveness.

corsus offers companies sound support in the development and refinement of their sustainability strategy. In addition, we take on the design and preparation of sustainability reports (CSRD-compliant or outside the scope of application) as well as the preparation of VSME reports on the new DNK-platform.