The European Commission is organizing a one-day seminar titled 'Supporting companies in applying the European sustainability reporting standards (ESRS)' on 15 November 2024. This event will gather experts and practitioners from various sectors, including Member State representations, business and trade associations, companies, consultancies, auditors, and other stakeholders.

The seminar aims to explore the challenges and opportunities for companies as they begin to apply the ESRS. Discussions will focus on practical support for implementing the new framework, including digital tools for reporting, audit and assurance of ESRS reports, and voluntary reporting by SMEs in larger companies' value chains.

The ESRS applies to companies under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) starting from the financial year 2024, with the first reports expected in 2025. The event will also address the 'trickle-down effect' on SMEs, which face increased demand for sustainability information.

The seminar will be held at the Albert Borschette Conference Centre in Brussels, Belgium, and will be available for online attendance. Registration for physical attendance is closed, but online registration remains open.