Latest Developments in EU Corporate Sustainability Regulations

In recent years, the European Union has introduced new rules to make the economy more sustainable and reduce its environmental impact. These regulations have increased transparency for companies regarding sustainability issues. However, recently, the EU has changed its approach. To help businesses become more competitive and reduce bureaucracy, the Omnibus Package was approved on February 26, a set of measures that relaxes some regulations and facilitates investment.
This package introduces changes in areas such as sustainability reporting, sustainable finance regulations, and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
Changes to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD):
- Fewer companies affected: It will only apply to companies with more than 1,000 employees and 50 million euros in revenue.
- Foreign companies: Companies with over 450 million euros in revenue and large subsidiaries in the EU will need to comply with the regulation.
- Fewer requirements: The amount of data to be reported will be reduced by 70%.
- Less administrative burden: A less demanding verification level will be maintained.
- More time to adapt: Companies that were required to comply by 2026 or 2027 will now have until 2028.
Changes to the EU Taxonomy:
- Fewer companies required: Only those with more than 1,000 employees and 450 million euros in revenue will have to report their alignment with the taxonomy.
- Simplified requirements: Some criteria will be reduced to ease compliance.
Changes to the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD):
- Broader scope: Now includes indirect subcontractors, not just direct suppliers.
- Fewer controls: Instead of annual evaluations, there will be evaluations every five years.
- Less legal risk: The possibility of companies being sued directly for non-compliance is eliminated.
- Extended deadlines: Large companies will have until 2028 to comply.
Changes to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM):
- Easier for small importers: Procedures are simplified, and emission calculation methods are more flexible.
Impact on the Plastic Sector:
Plastic industry companies must adapt to these regulations to remain competitive. Some strategies include:
- Measuring their carbon footprint with certified tools.
- Using recycled materials and cleaner technologies.
- Improving energy efficiency in their processes.
- Investing in renewable energy and advanced recycling solutions.
In conclusion, the Omnibus Package has raised concerns about its impact on sustainable investment, but it also gives businesses more time to adapt. However, sustainability should not be seen only as a legal requirement but as an opportunity to innovate and improve competitiveness.
In sectors like plastics, it is crucial to find a balance between profitability and environmental responsibility. Investing in sustainability not only helps comply with the law but can also enhance the image and future of companies in a market where consumers increasingly value environmental commitment.
At AIMPLAS, we actively contribute to this process by helping companies calculate their carbon footprint and adapt to sustainability requirements. Through specialized tools and technical advice, we facilitate the implementation of innovative solutions that ensure regulatory compliance and improve environmental efficiency for organizations.