Sustainability is no longer a medium-term goal or just a concept under discussion – it has become a reality that is already transforming the way Portuguese companies do business. As an irreversible process, it represents a competitive advantage in the international market.
Within the “Acelerar a Economia” programme, led by the Portuguese Ministry of Economy, sustainability is a key priority, reflected in six flagship measures, three of which focus on the adoption of Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) criteria.
The implementation of ESG principles follows European Union regulations and directives, such as the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (CSDD), and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which establish new requirements for companies.
These rules involve adopting environmental measures, including climate change mitigation and adaptation, biodiversity preservation, pollution prevention, and the promotion of a circular economy. On the social front, they cover aspects such as equality, inclusion, labour relations, work-life balance, investment in people and communities, and the protection of human rights.
In terms of governance, sound management of public and private institutions is essential to ensuring transparency and integrating social and environmental considerations into strategic decision-making. This includes management structures, employee relations, and executive remuneration policies, fostering a more responsible and sustainable business culture.
