VSME Reporting
What is the VSME standard?
The framework consists of two modules:
Basic Module
11 disclosures on environment, social policy, and governance
Comprehensive Module
9 disclosures for more comprehensive reporting
Which companies is the VSME standard intended for?
The VSME standard is intended for companies that:
- fall outside the scope of CSRD
- experience increasing pressure from customers, supply chain partners, or banks
- want to provide clear answers to ESG questions without over-reporting
- want to report on sustainability in their own way, in their own language
- want to anticipate future obligations
Why report using the VSME standard?
Avoid unfocused data requests
Large companies may only request VSME indicators. This keeps it manageable.
Create a reusable report
Suitable for clients, banks, tenders, or ESG assessments.
Maintain control over your reporting
It's better to report on sustainability yourself than to end up in someone else's supply chain report.
Lay the groundwork for other standards
The same themes reappear in other ESG standards such as ISO, ESRS, EcoVadis, ...
How does the process work?
Intake meeting
We map out who is asking what from you, what data is available, and what reporting expectations exist. We also analyze your current sustainability initiatives and determine what information is reusable. This way, you avoid duplication of work and build on what is already there.
Selection of relevant themes
For each VSME pillar, we determine which reporting points are applicable. Not every theme is relevant for every company. What is not applicable, we justify according to the "comply or explain" principle: you only report on what is crucial for your sector and activities.
Collecting content
Together, we gather figures and policy documents. We systematically cover all relevant themes, from energy consumption to HR policy. Where possible, we reuse existing reports, invoices, and data. We limit additional efforts to what is strictly necessary.
Drafting the report
We build a structured report in the official VSME format. This contains all relevant information, yet remains clear and understandable. Immediately usable for clients, banks, and tenders. We also provide an executive summary for use in external communication.
Follow-up
We provide an update format for annual reuse and, if necessary, also prepare a public or English summary. You also receive a guide on how to adapt the report for different target audiences. This way, you maximize the value of your investment.
Why Mantis for VSME Reporting?
With in-depth knowledge of the VSME standard and related frameworks, we guide companies in Belgium from initial consultation to final report. Together, we ensure that your sustainability reporting not only meets all relevant requirements but also adds tangible value to your business strategy.
Complete peace of mind. From initial consultation to final report – we guide you through the entire VSME process without you needing to train or onboard your team.
Practical expertise. We know all sustainability standards and understand exactly how VSME connects with other frameworks you might need.
Results-oriented approach. We ensure you meet all requirements, but our primary focus is on what truly helps your company strengthen its position in the market.
Schedule an introductory meeting
Afterwards, you will know which reporting points apply to you and what is needed to build a correct and workable VSME report.
Not our words
"The team always thinks along with us, for both the short and long term. Pragmatic, efficient, and technically excellent. Their experience has often made the difference for us, in strategy and in the field."
Marc Croonen
Chief HR, Sustainability & Communication at Vandemoortele
“Why Mantis? An accessible approach and deep expertise. They successfully translate complex regulations into something workable for our organization.”
Jan Laroy
Managing Partner at Urbastyle
Frequently asked questions
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No, this is entirely voluntary. However, many companies choose to report proactively, especially if clients, financiers, or partners explicitly request it.
Not entirely. The VSME is a separate framework, without double materiality and without a mandatory audit. However, it aligns with themes from the CSRD and uses a similar structure. Read more about sustainability reporting.
Not if you follow the VSME standard. Large companies may only request information that falls within the VSME scope. This way, you avoid excessive requests and keep everything manageable.
That depends on the availability of your data, the complexity of your activities, and your objectives. Preparing the report is not the most time-consuming factor. It's mainly the collection of information that can take several months. We ensure this process runs as efficiently as possible.
Then you've already laid a solid foundation. Much of the VSME data is reusable for CSRD reporting, and you've already gained experience with structured sustainability reporting.
Also interesting?
Carbon Footprint
Energy audit or plan
Sustainability reporting
Lifecycle assessment (LCA) & EPD
Sustainabilityplan
Climate risk analysis
VLAIO Greening Scan
EcoVadis guidance
SBTi guidance
CO₂ Performance Ladder
Tailored services
