From January 1, 2025, large medium-sized companies that meet two out of three criteria (more than 250 employees, more than €40 million in turnover or more than €20 million in total assets) must carry out comprehensive sustainability reporting in accordance with the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). These reports must contain detailed information on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues and cover aspects such as business strategy, sustainability goals, risks and environmental and social impacts.



The study by IMI (Institute for Management and Innovation at the Ludwigshafen University of Applied Sciences) and PwC Germany (PricewaterCoopers GmbH ) sheds light on the current status and implementation of ESG strategies in German SMEs. It examines the goals, challenges and risks of ESG reporting as perceived by companies.

The study shows that many SMEs are under considerable pressure due to new EU requirements. It also provides valuable background information and concrete recommendations for initial steps in ESG reporting in order to meet organizational requirements and potential risks.



Many thanks for sending this report to the Ludwigshafen University of Business and Society, network partner and member of the Energy and Environment Cluster!