A Collaborative Approach to Transformative Governance
At the High-Level Political Forum in New York, the UN Global Compact Network Italy (UNGCN Italy) presented a significant document: the Position Paper on Transformative Governance. This paper, supported by 54 Italian companies, showcases innovative strategies to integrate sustainability into business operations.
Key Highlights from the Position Paper
The Position Paper, titled “Transformative Governance as a Driver of Responsible Conduct for a More Ethical, Prosperous and Sustainable Business,” outlines several critical strategies:
- Creation of Committees: Internal and external committees support Boards of Directors in developing sustainability strategies, especially in climate actions.
- Training Programs: Comprehensive training for employees, suppliers, and future generations, often in collaboration with schools.
- Stakeholder Involvement: Mechanisms for listening, consulting, and activating stakeholders at local levels.
- Partnership Projects: Collaborations with the Third Sector to combat climate change and improve the accessibility and quality of primary services for citizens.
Case Studies Demonstrating Success
The paper presents 20 case histories that highlight the transformative potential of sustainable governance. These cases illustrate how Italian companies are leading by example, integrating sustainability into their core strategies and operations.
Presentation and Public Support
The document was launched during an event in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations. Marco Frey, President of UNGCN Italy, and Daniela Bernacchi, Executive Director, presented the paper, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in business competitiveness.
Marco Frey: “Companies are increasingly recognizing sustainability as a central element of competitiveness, integrating it into their governance to guide their business.”
Insights from Key Speakers
Several notable figures spoke about the impact of the “Transformative Governance” approach:
- Claudio Barbaro, Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security, highlighted the need for effective dialogue between businesses and institutions to address global challenges.
- Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the United Nations Global Compact, praised the Position Paper and the work of the Italian Country Network.
- Alexandra Bolton, Director of the Climate Governance Initiative, emphasized the need for climate objectives and the right mix of skills at the Board level.
Emphasizing the Urgency of Climate Action
Daniela Bernacchi, Executive Director of UNGCN Italy, stressed the importance of integrating climate governance into corporate strategies: “Climate change is an urgent challenge for businesses. Boards of directors must adopt a holistic approach, involving all internal levels and engaging with external stakeholders.”
Moving Forward
Italian companies are setting a benchmark for sustainable governance. By focusing on training, partnerships, and stakeholder involvement, they are not only addressing the climate emergency but also paving the way for a more sustainable future. The Position Paper is a testament to their commitment and a blueprint for others to follow.
Conclusion
The efforts of these 54 Italian companies demonstrate that sustainability is not just a buzzword but a crucial component of modern business strategy. Their innovative approaches and commitment to transformative governance are leading the way towards a more ethical, prosperous, and sustainable business environment.
