BNEW 2023

Sustainability - Regenerative Economy

In this discussion, we examine the emerging world of regenerative economics and its key role in the development of business and society. The speakers actively advocate a transition from the old, resource-depleting economic model to one that gives new life to our valuable natural resources. By exploring these ideas, we are able to see the complex relationship between environmental and social issues, illustrating how they are interconnected in beautiful harmony. The urgency of addressing these challenges becomes even more apparent, urging us to act quickly. In addition, they discuss the exciting role of legislation, competition, customer choice and supply chains in driving sustainability efforts. This conversation clearly shows the dynamism of business and society as they move toward a brighter, more regenerative future.

04:10 The panel includes leaders in sustainability with extensive experience.

Ester Zarza from Sofia of zero sustainability partners has 15+ years of experience in the field.
Raimón from Rutfords is an expert in business strategies with 15+ years of experience.
David Serrano is a corporate director of SG and has over 25 years of experience in engineering, energy, and sustainability.

08:39 Transition from an extractive to a regenerative economy

10:45 Moving to a sustainable economy is crucial due to planetary limits and increasing resource consumption.

15:25 Sustainability is key to a sustainable model of life and prosperity

17:25 Legislation and competition force companies to change to stay competitive

21:22 We are an organization that works for the benefit of Barcelona and its welfare.

23:26 The transformation of the Olympic harbor is a powerful example of urban regeneration and sustainable electric mobility.

27:45 Regeneration concept helps companies become more sustainable

29:33 Businesses should identify material issues and develop strategies to improve social, environmental and governance impact.

33:12 Measuring and monetizing the impact of climate change and inequality

35:03 Impact investing consists of investing in companies that solve social or environmental problems.

38:21 The importance of companies and regenerative actions

40:04 Transforming supply chains to create healthy, sustainable products

44:06 Theenergy sector is rapidly shifting to renewable energies

46:20 It is easier for state-owned companies than for SMEs to implement cost-saving measures

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The session highlighted the imperative to move from an extractive to a regenerative economy, a movement that embodies the essence of restoring our environment, promoting social equity and advocating for sustainability. This transition is crucial, given the finite limits of our planet and the increasing depletion of resources, which has detrimental environmental consequences.

In this journey toward a regenerative economy, sustainability emerges as the guiding star, a model of existence and prosperity that integrates the physical, environmental and social dimensions to ensure our well-being and comfort within regenerative boundaries. Influential forces such as market dynamics, legal frameworks, competitive spirit, customer expectations and intricate supply chains drive companies to embrace sustainability with unwavering momentum.

Legislation and market competition force companies to evolve, adapt and remain competitive. Failure to embrace sustainability is synonymous with the risk of losing valuable customers. Today, sustainability is no longer a mere option, but a fundamental aspect of an organization's identity, a crucial pillar to gain a foothold in the market.

For companies, it is essential to identify critical issues and develop strategies to improve their social, environmental and governance impact. Prioritizing sustainability, engaging stakeholders with shared interests and seamlessly integrating social and environmental considerations into business models are the foundations for long-term success.

Measuring and quantifying the effects of climate change and inequalities can be a formidable task, but it is a mission of great significance. Expressing environmental risks and damages in monetary terms allows us to evaluate investment options and government policies and ultimately steer them in a more sustainable direction. Moreover, advocating sustainability within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is a task that carries considerable weight.

The concept of impact investing takes center stage, highlighting companies that not only address social and environmental issues, but do so while adhering to high standards of sustainability and governance. Models such as Danone stand as living proof of how regenerative practices can coexist harmoniously with health and sustainability, serving as a beacon for others to follow.

At the supply chain level, a transformational shift is underway to create healthy and sustainable products. In both the agricultural and egg farming sectors, the triple bottom line - environmental impact, animal welfare and financial viability - is the cornerstone of responsible practices.

The energy sector is undergoing a rapid evolution towards renewable energies, driven by the voice of consumers demanding equitable relations and a revolution among investors who prioritize sustainability.

The implementation of cost-saving measures opens up exciting prospects for innovation, new businesses and increased employment opportunities. Although large public companies have an advantage in this respect, smaller companies can also use the available tools and margins to their advantage.

In summary, the session underscored the critical role of sustainability, the need to transition to a regenerative economy, and the collective responsibility of stakeholders in fostering transformative and positive change.