The European Green Deal: how an integrated approach to sustainability can put your business on the right track
Making Europe climate-neutral by 2050: that is the ambition at the heart of the European Green Deal. Although there is still heated debate about the specific path to that final destination, the objective is firmly enshrined in our legislation. What is also clear is that businesses are being looked to in particular to make that ambition a reality. But don’t panic: our expertise in helping businesses go green will guide you seamlessly towards a sustainable and profitable future.
Let’s recap: what exactly does the European Green Deal entail?
In early 2020, the European Commission presented its plan to prepare Europe for a green future – a series of measures designed to make the EU climate-neutral by 2050. These measures can broadly be divided into four categories:
Energy: phasing out fossil fuels as much as possible and focusing on renewable energy, supported by the expansion of infrastructure such as electricity grids and the introduction of hydrogen as a clean energy source.
Industry: placing greater emphasis on recycling materials and greening production processes, with a particular focus on the circular economy.
Construction: renovating old buildings to be energy-efficient and constructing new buildings in accordance with the highest sustainability standards.
Nature restoration: reforesting urbanised Europe wherever possible and promoting the restoration of natural ecosystems, supported by the recently approved Nature Restoration Act.
Although making Europe climate-neutral by 2050 is already enshrined as a concrete objective in a legal framework, Member States are still in the process of implementing specific measures. Key milestones such as the Nature Restoration Act have now been approved, whilst other measures, such as the ban on the sale of new diesel and petrol cars from 2035, are still being further developed.
‘Early movers have the advantage of time to refine and perfect their innovations before the competition catches up’
2050 seems a long way off. And it is. Yet the same applies here: a good start is half the battle. As you know, many companies have actually been working for years on systematically greening their operations. This process will need to be accelerated to meet the new, more ambitious targets. Doing so in the most efficient and financially viable way: that is our expertise at Encon.
How we work with you to prepare your business for the Green Deal
At Encon, we support companies in greening their operations. We offer a wide range of services, which we have divided into four categories for your convenience:
- Operations
Thanks to their external perspective and broad expertise, we know better than anyone which measures will have the greatest impact. Moreover, every measure is framed within the overall business operations, ensuring that each project is maximised and not only has a positive impact on our planet but also contributes to the growth of your business.
- Asset management
Sustainable asset management will not only enable your company to make significant cost savings in the short term, but will also ensure continuity in the long term. Governments are becoming increasingly strict regarding sustainability compliance, and the expectations of consumers and employees are also rising. If you want your company to remain relevant, sustainability is a must.
- Innovation
Innovation is a key growth factor for every sector and every business. Sustainability is a powerful driver of this innovation. In a world where sustainability standards are constantly rising, it is worth taking a close look at your portfolio and identifying how sustainability can lead to innovative revenue models. By taking a fresh look at your current activities, a world of new opportunities opens up.
- And finally, communicate about it
We are increasingly aware of the impact we have on our planet. As a result, consumers, customers and employees are motivated to do their bit. They are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and prefer brands, companies and products that support them in this. Brands that succeed in showing their customers and employees that they are more sustainable than their competitors have a significant advantage.
In short: sustainability as a common thread throughout your business
Sustainability as a business model is most powerful when implemented in an integrated way. A concrete example: insulating your business premises is a good step forward, but by also installing solar panels on the roof, fitting a solar battery and electrifying your vehicle fleet and powering it via that renewable energy, you are truly creating a sustainable policy.
If you apply that principle throughout your organisation, you’ll be well on your way not only to complying with the Green Deal, but also to ensuring that sustainability and profitability go hand in hand. By taking the right steps now, you can not only comply with legislation, but also gain a competitive edge and secure a sustainable and profitable future.
The transition to a sustainable future? It starts today! Contact us and let our experts guide your business.
