While we are living in a global context of crisis on several levels, it is time for companies to get their heads above water and move towards a more sustainable future.
Rising raw material and energy prices, among others, are challenging traditional development models and confirming the need to create qualitative growth, particularly in light of compliance challenges governed by European regulations that will soon be knocking on your door: Green Deal, CSRD, taxonomy...
It is time to infuse a new dynamic and to rethink your business, integrating sustainable development at the heart of your strategy.
In its broadest sense, 'sustainability' ensures intergenerational equity and aims to "meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs" (1987 Brundtland report). Applied at the corporate level, sustainability aims to create long-term value by considering the way a company operates in environmental, economic, social, and governance terms. Sustainability is based on the belief that such strategies promote the longevity of the company and provide answers to societal and environmental challenges.
"Sustainable development is no longer an option, but a necessity. For companies, this means complying with regulations, adapting to society's expectations, and remaining competitive while dealing with environmental and geopolitical risks."
Fernand Ernster, President of the Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber of Commerce has already begun this transformation, with the implementation of the 10 Luxembourg Sustainable Business Principles, 10 guiding principles for integrating sustainability issues into the strategy of companies in Luxembourg, in line with the commitments made in the context of the Paris Climate Agreement and the UN Agenda 2030 mobilising the international community around 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
For several years now, most countries around the world, their institutions, citizens, and entrepreneurs have been aware of the vital and urgent need to address the many environmental and social challenges that human activities can bring to the planet. Because economic activities create value and wealth, they are an engine of prosperity and social progress. To avoid jeopardising the very ecosystem in which companies operate, economic development must be "sustainable," and this applies to all types of companies. This has become essential!
"Craftsmanship is synonymous with sustainability. Responsible use of resources, regional involvement, training of qualified personnel, and short distances are part of the daily routine of our craftspeople."
Tom Oberweis, President of the Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts
This evolution requires a certain effort from companies in all sectors. Therefore, it was decided to create the House of Sustainability to support them and facilitate their sustainable transition.
This initiative is led by the Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts, in partnership with INDR, whose objective is to federate an ecosystem and to encourage the sustainable transition of companies of all sizes and in all sectors. The role of the House of Sustainability is to guide companies and offer them a complete range of services, in collaboration with partners in the ecosystem, to best meet their needs.
"Making companies resilient to the challenges of sustainable development is crucial in the current socio-economic context. Companies are facing multiple crises. The energy crisis shows that the 'environmental' dimension of sustainability has moved to the top of the agenda of all managers - often as a matter of survival. Acting is vital to prepare for the future."
Tom Oberweis, President of the Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts
Its mission is to accelerate and facilitate this transition through three levels of support for companies: informing and raising awareness, guiding and training, and promoting and certifying.
To do this, the House of Sustainability relies on a solid network of partners who have developed tools and solutions for Luxembourg companies.
"Facilitating the sustainable transition of companies by bringing together key players around sustainable development? This is our objective! To do this, we must join forces with the business world and local experts to offer the most appropriate and accessible services for our companies. Thanks to our partners and experts, the House of Sustainability can guide you, respond to your specific needs, and accompany you in your sustainable projects."
Fernand Ernster, President of the Chamber of Commerce
Launched on 12 April 2023, the new website (www.sustainability.lu) provides a wealth of information on sustainable development and dedicated content to meet the needs of companies: documentation, a list of services and tools, existing players, labels, recommendations, and more.
Monthly themed events - the Sustainability Cycles - will be organised from June 2023, based on the 10 guiding principles of sustainable development.
Free customised support will be offered to the companies in the country.
The "SME Packages - Sustainability" offer individual support and funding to achieve a concrete solution that reduces environmental impact and generates savings through reduced energy or water consumption, improved waste management, or a reduced carbon footprint. This package allows you to benefit from a flat-rate grant of €5,000 for an investment of between €6,650 excluding VAT and €25,000 excluding VAT.
The sustainable transition will be boosted by the mobilisation of companies and craftspeople, who will see it as an investment for society, and for themselves.
Today, the House of Sustainability offers a chance to Luxembourg companies to move forward more quickly and to support them at every stage of their transformation.
"It is important to think in terms of generations and to take permanent measures that will protect our future livelihoods. Therefore, it is essential that environmental and social aspects are considered and integrated into the way companies work, so that they can position themselves positively for the future."
Tom Oberweis, President of the Chamber of Skilled Trades and Crafts
"I am convinced that the House of Sustainability will strengthen Luxembourg's credibility and visibility as a country committed to and innovative in the sustainable development of its economy and that it will be a collective success and beneficial for all our companies."
Fernand Ernster, President of the Chamber of Commerce
More information onwww.sustainability.lu
