The European Union’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its recent regulatory updates, particularly in corporate sustainability reporting and carbon border adjustments. These changes have significant implications for companies, especially those importing products into the EU. Understanding these changes is crucial for businesses to align with the new sustainability norms and maintain market access.
Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), effective since January 5, 2023, modernizes and strengthens the requirements for social and environmental information reporting. It applies to a broader set of large companies and listed SMEs, necessitating detailed reports on sustainability matters and their impacts. Notable points include:
– Reporting Scope: Companies must report on environmental, social, human rights, and governance aspects. This includes disclosures on EU Taxonomy environmental objectives, gender equality, working conditions, business ethics, and more. The European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) have been approved and will apply from 1 January 2024 as required by the CSRD.
– Compliance Timelines: The first reports under the CSRD are due in 2025 for the 2024 financial year. Different timelines apply depending on the company size and whether they are EU-based or non-EU entities.
– Assurance Requirements: Companies must obtain third-party assurance over their CSRD disclosures, starting with limited assurance and eventually moving to more stringent standards by 2028.
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
CBAM, part of the EU’s strategy to prevent carbon leakage, imposes a carbon cost on imports of certain goods from outside the EU. It aims to encourage producers in non-EU countries to adopt greener production methods. Key aspects include:
– Coverage: Initially, CBAM will cover sectors like cement, electricity, fertilizers, iron and steel, and aluminum.
– Implementation Phases: The mechanism will start with a transitional phase from 2023 to 2025, during which companies will report emissions without financial obligations. From 2026 onwards, importers must buy carbon certificates corresponding to the carbon price that would have been paid, had the goods been produced under the EU’s carbon pricing rules.
What Should Companies Do?
For businesses, particularly those importing into the EU, it’s essential to:
1. Understand Applicability: Determine if your company falls under the CSRD or CBAM regulations.
2. Develop Reporting Capabilities: Prepare for detailed sustainability reporting, covering aspects from environmental impact to governance.
3. Engage in Sustainable Practices: Align business strategies with sustainability goals, including carbon footprint reduction and ethical supply chain management.
4. Seek Expertise: Companies like Combi Works can assist in navigating these regulations, especially for manufacturing and managing processes in Asia. Our sustainability strategy aligns with the EU’s directives, making us a suitable partner for compliance and sustainable operations.
Conclusion
The EU’s strides towards sustainability through the CSRD and CBAM present both challenges and opportunities for companies. Adapting to these regulations is not just about compliance but also about embracing sustainable practices as a core business strategy. With expert guidance and a proactive approach, companies can turn these regulations into a competitive advantage, contributing positively to global sustainability efforts.
For more information, give us a call at +358 10 2193 080
