The goal of this certificate course is to equip participants with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field of sustainability reporting - in accordance with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) - Directive (EU) 2022/2464, the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) (including the standard for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises - VSME ESRS), and the EU Taxonomy Regulation on the classification of environmentally sustainable economic activities.

The “Sustainability Reporting Specialist” certificate course is the ideal training course for anyone who wants to get up to speed in the world of sustainability reporting - regardless of whether you already have experience in this field or are just getting started. The course offers a clearly structured and practice-oriented way to acquire in-depth knowledge and apply it directly in real-world scenarios.  

There are no special requirements that need to be met in order to take part in the “Sustainability Reporting Specialist” certificate course. The course is designed in such a way that both beginners and experts can benefit from it.  

Our practice-oriented training, supported by experienced speakers from the industry, provides you with all the important knowledge and skills you need to meet the requirements of the new EU directives.

• • Practical training: Transfer of hands-on knowledge for the preparation and review of sustainability reports in accordance with CSRD and ESRS.  

• • Flexibility: Modular structure allows you to join the course at any time and catch up on missed modules (via video recordings). 

• • Experienced speakers: Insights from industry professionals such as Tanja Castor (BASF) and Alexander Rasch (Helaba), alongside our regular expert lecturers.  

• • Comprehensive contents: Detailed training on ESG topics, governance, environmental and social aspects.  

• • Live online courses: Interactive, digital participation with maximum flexibility. 

MODULE 1: Introduction to Sustainability Reporting-- Learn the basics of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) . This module provides a comprehensive overview of the regulatory framework - including EU Taxonomy Regulation, Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) and planned Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). Current developments, such as the Omnibus Regulation, are also included. [Speaker: Prof. Dr. Karina Sopp, TU Bergakademie Freiberg]

MODULE 2: EU taxonomy - Understand how Regulation (EU) 2020/852 works in the context of the European Green Deal and its importance in sustainability reporting. You will learn about the DNSH (Do No Significant Harm) criteria and receive practical guidance on how to integrate the EU taxonomy into your business processes - including challenges of data collection and linking it to CSRD. [Speaker: Catharina Ahmadi, environomics]

MODULE 3: Basics of ESRS reporting - Gain a structured introduction to the ESRSframework focusing on the content and requirements of ESRS 1 and ESRS 2. The module highlights double materiality, general disclosure requirements and their strategic integration - supported by practical examples, stakeholder involvement and technical requirements such as ESEF tagging. [Speaker: Dr. Josef Baumüller, TU Vienna]

MODULE 4: Social aspects in ESRS reporting - Deepen your understanding of reporting on working conditions, human rights and social justice. Learn how to develop strategies and targets in line with ESRS S1, learn about the requirements for governance and manage social issues effectively, and apply real-word case studies. [Speaker: Prof. Dr. Stefan Müller, Helmut-Schmidt-University]

MODULE 5: Governance Aspects in ESRS Reporting & CSDDD - This module teaches the requirements of ESRS G1 on corporate governance, supervision and internal control. You will learn how governance aspects are strategically embedded in sustainability reporting and how the link to the CSDDD and to human rights and environmental due diligence obligations is established. [Speaker: Prof. Dr. Stefan Müller, Helmut-Schmidt-University]

MODULE 6: Environmental aspects in ESRS reporting - You will learn about the content and reporting obligations of ESRS E1 and other environmental standards. The module covers climate-related disclosures, CO₂ accounting, transition plans and the strategic management of environmental impacts - completed by examples. [Speaker: Monika Brom, EFRAG / Federal Environment Agency]

MODULE 7: Data collection along the value chain & VSME ESRS - This module is focused on the practical implementation of data collection along the supply chain - for example Scope 3 emissions and human rights risks. The VSME ESRS is presented as a solution for SMEs to meet legal or voluntary reporting requirements efficently. [Speaker: Dr. Martin Altenburger, retria GmbH]

+MODULE: News on CSRD and ESRS implementation - Gain exclusive insights into current developments and challenges in the implementation of reporting obligations. Benefit from exchange with experts from companies, standard setters and consultants - including practical case studies and discussions on open questions. [Referent*innen u.a. Dr. Josef Baumüller, TU Wien; Stephan Thoenissen, LEG Management GmbH der LEG Gruppe] 

+ Certificate examination - The course ends with a written project (10-15 pages) and an 15-minute oral presentation. You can choose to work on your own company project or a provided case. The exam evaluates your ability to apply your knowledge to specific sustainability reporting challenges.