EFRAG has released an updated version of the Voluntary Standard (VS) Digital Template alongside its XBRL Taxonomy and Converter. The updated release aligns with the latest Voluntary Standard and reflects changes introduced since the initial VSME Recommendation, helping businesses adopt standardized digital sustainability reporting.
Key Technical Features and Reporting Enhancements
The updated digital template and software converter introduce several functional capabilities intended to streamline digital disclosures. Reporting entities can now provide comparative numerical information side by side against prior periods by uploading a Digital Template from a previous reporting cycle.
To increase flexibility for qualitative disclosures, narrative sections can now be uploaded as formatted Word (DOCX) files. Additionally, a new merge function allows users to combine the VS Inline XBRL Report with PDF documents, satisfying paragraph 21 of the Voluntary Standard for combined reporting alongside financial statements or EMAS disclosures. Customisation options have also been expanded to allow introductory text and footnotes per disclosure.
All materials and code have been released under an open-source license, allowing software vendors to integrate these features into commercial reporting solutions.
Regulatory Alignment and Language Availability
The updated tools incorporate amendments stemming from the Voluntary Standard adopted in July 2026 and published by the European Commission in the Official Journal in September 2026. The release is currently available in 11 languages to facilitate adoption across European jurisdictions, with further language versions scheduled as translation reviews finish.
Kristian Koktvedgaard, Acting SRB Chair, noted that the release marks an important step in providing undertakings with accessible, practical digital sustainability reporting tools to encourage broader application. The translation process was supported by National Standard Setters and the Centre for Financial Reporting Reform (CFRR) of the World Bank Group. Stakeholders can access the tools via EFRAG's Knowledge Hub and submit technical feedback through the project's GitHub repository.
Frequently Asked Questions
What new capabilities does the updated EFRAG VS Digital Template provide?
The updated digital tools offer comparative numerical reporting against previous periods, Word (DOCX) file support for narrative disclosures, a document merge tool for Inline XBRL and PDF files, per-disclosure footnotes, and support for 11 languages.
Under what licensing terms are the EFRAG digital reporting materials available?
All code and materials are published under an open-source license, enabling software developers to incorporate them directly into commercial reporting products.
