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Should we wait to start
ESG reporting?

The EU omnibus proposal:

What do the changes mean in practice, and how should your company approach ESG reporting now?
Below we answer the questions companies ask most right now and point to practical next steps.

Prefer a concise overview? See ESG now or later →

Is ESG reporting still relevant after the Omnibus Proposal?

Yes. The Omnibus proposes timeline adjustments for some companies; it does not cancel ESG expectations. Investors, customers, and regulators continue to request core ESG facts.

For smaller companies, VSME is a complete, credible report that meets most stakeholder needs and can be extended later. See VSME for maritime — start here .

Do we need to report now, or can we wait?

If you’re in scope now (or part of a group that is), you should follow current requirements. If you’re not in scope yet, you have more time - but use it to prepare rather than pause.

Early organisation reduces rework later and protects credibility with customers and lenders. For many smaller companies, starting with VSME is the practical and manageable route.

What happens if we wait?

Delaying ESG reporting could create challenges:

  • Evidence is lost. Files sit in emails and shared drives. Later, you cannot prove where a number came from or what it included.

  • Requests are harder to answer. Customers and lenders still ask for ESG facts; bids or audits can be delayed while you search for data.

  • First-time reporting takes longer and costs more. You must recreate past months and explain gaps.

Companies that start now will benefit from a smoother and more cost-efficient transition, gaining early insights into risks that could impact their business in the future.

What should we prioritise in ESG reporting?

Start by streamlining data collection and, where possible, automating ESG and decarbonisation reporting. This improves quality and consistency, and reduces manual workload over time.

Even with extended timelines, establish a solid baseline now so stakeholders have credible information and you’re ready as requirements evolve.

While not all of the following are required today, consider:

  • Carbon accounting – quantify your climate impact (Scopes 1–3 where relevant) and track progress.
  • Double materiality assessment (DMA) – identify your most relevant impacts, risks and opportunities (optional in VSME).
  • Climate and nature risk assessments – understand transition/physical risks and build resilience.
  • Integrate ESG into strategy – embed priorities in core business planning, not as a side project.


If you're not yet in scope for more extensive reporting, we recommend starting with the VSME framework.

What’s the difference between voluntary and mandatory reporting?
Voluntary reporting
 
  • You choose to publish ESG information even if it isn't required by regulation.

  • Scope and depth are flexible. VSME suits smaller companies that are not currently in CSRD/ESRS scope.

  • Benefits: shows transparency to customers and lenders, builds a baseline, and prepares you for future requirements.
 
Mandatory reporting
 
  • Required by regulation when a company meets scope thresholds or is part of a group that is in scope.

  • Content and format are defined by the standard; external assurance may be required over time.

  • Even if you’re not directly in scope, customers and banks may ask suppliers for data aligned with their reporting frameworks.


Not sure which applies to you? See ESG now or later or talk to us about scope and group situations.
How can Metizoft make ESG reporting easier?
  • Automate data collection – avoid manual processes.
  • Templates for relevant standards (ESRS, VSME and more) to ensure comparability and efficiency.

  • Choose the right tools: Metizoft helps businesses transition smoothly to ESG reporting.

Please note: This page contains general information, not legal advice. National adoption may differ.

Get ahead in your ESG journey!

Reach out to us to discover how Metizoft can streamline your ESG reporting and ensure your business is always in compliance.