Early movers in sustainability regulation lead the way
In today’s current sustainability regulation landscape, it is essential for companies to achieve compliance – and where possible go beyond that. In that regard, acting early, adapting quick and maintaining transparency is what will set leaders apart, write experts from FiSer Consulting.
The evolving sustainability regulatory landscape, especially in the European Union, is reshaping how businesses approach both compliance and long-term sustainability strategies. One of the biggest sustainability trends this year is the shift from ESG statements to practical, measurable integration. Companies are focusing on embedding sustainability into daily operations, rather than relying on one-off campaigns or pledges.
At the same time, new themes are rising, such as biodiversity and natural capital, digital tools for sustainability reporting, and sustainable finance as a catalyst for change.
Meanwhile, regulatory divergence is becoming more evident. In the US, ESG is facing political pushback, with some institutions withdrawing from climate commitments. In Europe meanwhile, regulators are moving in the opposite direction, refining frameworks to support companies and reduce burdens, particularly for SMEs.
The Omnibus Package
Current EU sustainability regulations, despite good intentions, have created operational complexity, inconsistent standards and competitive barriers for European companies, highlighting the need for a more streamlined regulatory approach.
In this context, the most relevant development in sustainability regulation is the announcement of the Omnibus package by the European Commission. This proposal is designed to simplify sustainability reporting and due diligence requirements, reducing compliance burdens for businesses. Published in February 2025, the Omnibus package introduces significant regulatory rollbacks by adjusting key frameworks like CSRD, CSDDD, and the Taxonomy.
The Omnibus package is projected to deliver over €6 billion in administrative relief, which is critical for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). However, regulatory uncertainty remains – especially for businesses already heavily invested in sustainability reporting. Is this a strategic move to enhance EU competitiveness, or will it disrupt long-term sustainability goals?
Our advice during this transition period is not to pause. Over-simplification of ESG rules carries the risk of undermining transparency, stakeholder trust, and long-term sustainability integrity. And while the Omnibus is reducing burden and delaying compliance, embedding the ESG criteria in your organization is inevitable. Even with delays, the direction is clear: better data, clearer reporting, and stronger alignment with long-term goals.
Use this window of opportunity to simplify internal processes and prepare for what’s next will help companies stay ahead – while others wait and react later.
