Mess4ge ESG Reporting Template Aligns with EFRAG Standards

The Mess4age project announces that its ESG reporting template (https://mess4ge-project.eu/project-results/) has been updated to align with EFRAG’s Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs (VSME), published as an exposure draft on 21 January 2024.

EFRAG Standards Alignment

The template follows EFRAG’s Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for non-listed SMEs (VSME) and will be reviewed regularly to maintain compliance with current standards.

Comparative Overview:

Supporting SME Sustainability Reporting

The template supports the EC SME Relief Package of September 2023 by:

• Standardising ESG data requests
• Reducing reporting burden for non-listed SMEs
• Facilitating access to lenders, investors, and clients

The project invites all stakeholders to engage with its ESG reporting template and provide feedback to help drive sustainable growth and create a more resilient and transparent business environment for European SMEs.

The MESS4GE project is dedicated to establishing a framework for reporting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Europe. With a focus on the horizontal priority of the environment and the fight against climate change, the project aims to generate new knowledge and skills that actively support sustainable development and the battle against climate change. MESS4GE addresses both of these requirements by creating a standardized approach to ESG reporting, providing organizations with comprehensive information for informed decision-making and promoting sustainability. This newfound knowledge can be utilized by researchers, organizations, advocates, and others to enhance monitoring systems, develop conscious policies, and initiate environmental protection measures at all levels.

The project’s main objective is to establish a consistent methodology for ESG reporting across European businesses. This will involve the creation of an innovative, modular, and applicable body of knowledge encompassing corporate Environmental, Social, and Governance aspects. To achieve this, the project will develop a capacity-building package designed to equip professionals, including ESG experts, consultants, and auditors, with the necessary analytical and reporting skills. Throughout the 24-month project duration, this package will undergo pilot testing. These professionals will act as the initial “ambassadors” of the ESG report. This approach aligns with the specific priority of vocational education and training, aiming to contribute to innovation in this field. The project envisions the adoption of new training methodologies by training and vocational education centers to meet the demand for a more relevant professional education sector, one that aligns with societal needs and the job market.