Learning Center / Getting Started / 04
Getting Started
What is VSME and ESRS — and why they exist
These are two European sustainability reporting standards, each for a different type of company.
ESRS (European Sustainability Reporting Standards) — The mandatory standards for large companies under the CSRD directive. They are detailed, complex, and require external auditing. They apply to companies with more than 1,000 employees (according to the 2025 Omnibus proposal).
VSME (Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs) — The voluntary standard created by EFRAG specifically for micro, small and medium enterprises (fewer than 250 employees) that are not listed on a stock exchange. Published in July 2025 and formally recommended by the European Commission in July 2025.
Why does the VSME exist?
Because SMEs were receiving multiple ESG data requests — from banks, large clients, investors — each in a different format. The VSME creates a single, standardised format to respond to all of them.
The VSME has two modules: the Basic Module (entry-level, essential for all SMEs) and the Comprehensive Module (additional information frequently requested by banks and investors).
Bsustain generates reports aligned with the VSME. This means that when you fill in data on the platform, the report you receive is already in the format that banks and clients expect to see.
Getting Started