The path towards sustainability is a continuous process of adaptation, where businesses are called upon to balance market pressures and growing social expectations.
This was one of the key messages emphasised by Dr. Marinos Voukis, President of CSR Cyprus, during the 17th Corporate Sustainability & Responsibility Conference, held within the framework of INSPIRE 2025.
Founded in 2016, CSR Cyprus is an independent, NGO and non-profit business-led membership organisation aiming to promote the concepts of corporate sustainability and responsibility to Cypriot businesses and organisations.
During his address, Dr. Voukis referred to the changing role of Cyprus on the global and European sustainability map and focused on the challenges and opportunities emerging for Cypriot businesses.
Particular emphasis was placed on the critical role of CSR Cyprus, which seeks to be the leading professional network that guides businesses and enhances changes to achieve Corporate Sustainability & Responsibility.
In his presentation, Dr. Voukis highlighted the organisation's active contribution to the formation of a resilient and responsible sustainability ecosystem, capable of responding to the growing demands of the times and linking sustainability with the competitiveness of businesses.
In this context, he put forward key proposals for the regulatory framework, including: The implementation of the CSRD Directive by simplifying reporting and clarifying essential issues, the gradual adoption of the CSDDD requirements with an emphasis on Tier 1 suppliers, and the simplification of the EU Taxonomy criteria for greater practicality and harmonisation with other regulatory requirements.
At the same time, Dr. Voukis presented proposals for linking sustainability with competitiveness, such as the implementation of the Green Claims Directive, the amendment of the EU Public Procurement Directive to boost demand for sustainable products and services, the support of sustainable innovation, as well as the establishment of incentives for investments in sustainable products and services, such as green VAT and green public procurement.
Particular emphasis was placed on training businesses to increase their know-how, informing and raising consumer awareness about choosing sustainable products, as well as cultivating cooperation and knowledge sharing between politicians and businesses, through field visits, pilot applications and other relevant programs.
The 17th Corporate Sustainability & Responsibility Conference confirmed for another year the importance of the annual meeting of businesses and executives, presenting the latest international developments and successful case studies, while highlighting the ways in which every business, regardless of size, can incorporate the principles of sustainability into its strategy, while ensuring competitive advantage and long-term responsibility.
(Source: InBusinessNews)
