Economic activities impact environment, people and society. Therefore, companies must take measures to maximize positive impacts and minimize negative effects springing from their operations. This is vital in order to continue functioning in an environmentally friendly way, supporting communities and still being profitable. Business plans need to take into account the risks posing climate change to economy, society and planet. 

International initiatives against climate change (Paris Agreement), along with the European regulatory framework and national policies (European Green Deal, Fit for 55 and National Climate Law) make Sustainability Strategy the new business model. Group and Companies must prioritize: 

• Rational use of natural resources, reduction of carbon footprint, antipollution policies and waste management, energy efficiency and biodiversity conservation.

• Social responsibility, community relations, product safety and quality, customer privacy, fair labor practices throughout the supply chain, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

• Transparency, accountability, and integrity in decision-making, diversity and independence among board members and adherence to ethical and legal standards.

All kind of business will have to meet sustainability requirements either under the so called CSRD, Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive, if they are big or through the financial sector and especially banks since all financing institutions are obliged to monitor the ESG performance of their clients and subsequently will demand from businesses (including SMEs) sustainability assessment.