Tanso in the VDMA podcast: Creating sustainability reports with ERP systems

The CSRD is coming! Companies will have to submit a standardized sustainability report from 2025. Till Wiechmann, CEO and co-founder of Tanso Technologies, and Christoph Herr, VDMA expert, talk in the VDMA Industry Podcast about practical examples and customer projects that show how sustainability accounting works and what role ERP systems play in this.‍

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_{*Note: The threshold for companies affected by the CSRD has been changed from a company turnover of >€40 million to >€50 million since the recording.}‍

How do the EU climate targets affect industries such as mechanical engineering?

The European Commission has set itself the goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2050. An important step in this process is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. Due to its size and importance, the mechanical engineering industry plays a crucial role in this process. Initiatives such as Blue Competence and special sustainability guidelines from the VDMA are already helping to promote sustainable solutions.

How are companies affected by the CSRD reporting requirement?

Many companies are faced with the challenge of meeting the new and stricter requirements for data quality and traceability of their sustainability reports. The CSRD reporting requirement ensures better comparability and demands a new seriousness about sustainability, with clear KPIs and possible board liability.

Does the reporting requirement also have an impact on companies that are not directly affected?

Yes, even companies that are not directly affected by the reporting requirement should address the issue. The requirements have an impact along the entire supply and value chain. Sustainability issues are also playing an increasingly important role in the recruitment of talent and in customer decisions.

What are the challenges of sustainability reporting?

The biggest challenge is data collection and developing a process for repeatable and traceable results. It is not just about producing a report once, but about continuously recording and improving sustainability performance.

How can ERP systems support sustainability reporting?

ERP systems are a central source of relevant data and provide a structured basis for sustainability reporting. They help to simplify data management and can play an important role in the collection and analysis of sustainability-related data.

Practical examples for getting started with sustainability reporting

In the VDMA white paper "Sustainability reports require intelligent systems", companies can find specific practical examples and guidance on how to get started with sustainability reporting. The examples show how relevant data can be collected and used for the report.

Recommendations for companies that want to start sustainability reporting

1. Inform and organize: It is important to be fully aware of the requirements of the CSRD. Among other things, the regulation requires detailed reporting of emissions from Scope 1 to 3.
2. Collect and analyze data: With the help of ERP systems and other tools, relevant data can be collected and prepared for reporting. Determine which emission sources are relevant in your company.
   This can range from direct emissions from your own facilities to emissions from the supply chain.
3. Develop a sustainability strategy: Create a strategy to improve your own sustainability performance based on the findings.

How can Tanso help with sustainability reporting?

The Tanso software not only enables the automated data collection of emissions from Scope 1-3, but also the control and optimization of your company's sustainability goals. Are you looking for software that can establish a stable, audit-proof standard process including an audit trail in your organization? Arrange a meeting with us to find out more.

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