As companies begin to digest the latest draft revisions to the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), responses are mixed – relief over greater clarity, but also frustration over delays and continued uncertainty.
For many, the ESRS draft revision and simplifications have been welcomed as a step toward greater clarity and usability. Several of our clients describe the new structure as easier to navigate and that the language is more accessible – while appreciating that the foundations remain intact.
Double materiality, due diligence, and the overall logic of the ESRS are here to stay, and most companies agree that these core principles should not be shaken.
Yet, there is also growing frustration. Many organisations are waiting for final decisions and clarifications on the Omnibus and the broader CSRD and CSDDD frameworks. This sense of “pause” risks slowing internal progress, even as stakeholders expect continued ambition.
As one client put it:
“Prioritise the meaningful disclosure requirements in the simplification – not all can be equally important. Focus on the data that will be used by stakeholders and remove what adds little value.”
Others highlight the need to speed up decisions, align with internationally recognised standards such as the SBTi for climate transition plans, and tailor disclosure requirements to reflect sector realities – for instance, how a certain sector is adapting business models to enable circularity.
Despite the uncertainties, the message is clear: don’t wait.
Simplifications may adjust the details, but the direction for responsible businesses remains the same → toward transparency, accountability, and integration of sustainability into business strategy.
At Enact, we see companies gaining the most value when they use this time to strengthen systems, refine materiality, and build internal capacity. Regulation can guide progress, but leadership lies in moving ahead regardless of the final text.
What matters is not the next rule, but the next step – moving forward with integrity and purpose.