The concept of sustainability has taken root. Good environmental and social practices are increasingly resonating in our reality, and despite the volatility that characterizes the international landscape, awareness of their importance is becoming ever more ingrained. Although progress may be affected by setbacks and fluctuations in the global panorama regarding renewable energy and fossil fuels, the ground already covered provides a solid foundation for continued advancement.
Today, the commitment to balanced development is not just an option, but a principle that transcends borders and political contexts, establishing itself as an unavoidable necessity shaping the future—one whose permanence is now irreversible.
A prominent example of this growing trend is Rome Fiumicino Airport, which now features the largest self-consumption photovoltaic installation built at a European airport and one of the largest in the world. This recent launch marked a major milestone in the airport sector, as it promotes the electrification of its facilities, strengthening the balance between progress and environmental protection.
In the field of renewable energy, project planning and execution are increasingly linked to concepts such as biodiversity and social impact. One model gaining significant prominence is agrivoltaics, a strategy that combines energy production with optimized land use, even improving soil conditions and stimulating local economies. A good example is the combination of renewable energy systems with vineyard cultivation: in addition to generating clean energy, the photovoltaic panels provide shade that protects the vines from intense solar radiation and helps retain soil moisture, significantly reducing the need for irrigation.
To ensure the success of these projects, however, achieving broad social acceptance in the area is essential. How can this be accomplished? Largely by fostering ongoing dialogue with local communities and encouraging their active participation from the earliest stages of planning. A holistic approach is needed—one that considers multiple ways of supporting communities and enhancing their well-being. Favorable practices include improving infrastructure, developing new services, implementing training programs for local labor, and creating synergies with other economic activities such as agriculture and livestock farming.
Meanwhile, society’s growing demand for transparency is pushing companies to communicate their practices, goals, and outcomes more clearly and verifiably. Beyond regulatory compliance and obtaining certifications, accountability has become a key strategic factor. Evidence of this is the new European Union legislation banning misleading environmental claims, widely known as “greenwashing.” It is also crucial to establish local communication strategies and promote a continuous, two-way, and constructive flow of information.
In parallel, the demand for professionals specialized in sustainability, renewable energy, circular economy, and climate technology—including in senior leadership positions—is booming. According to a report by the International Labour Organization, the European Commission expects the creation of 18 million green jobs worldwide by 2030, highlighting the growing importance of these skills. A very positive aspect is that this trend not only affects sectors and professionals traditionally linked to the environment, but is also expanding across multiple disciplines, encouraging the adoption of tools and knowledge aimed at improving sustainable practices in various areas of activity.
Likewise, the rise of impact investing is a trend reshaping current business strategies. More and more companies are allocating resources to initiatives with measurable social and environmental impact, in addition to financial returns. In other words, what was once seen as an obligation or a burden is now viewed as a transformative opportunity and a competitive advantage that strengthens a company’s economic sustainability and reputation.
Ultimately, we are witnessing a paradigm shift that is progressing unstoppably, profoundly transforming the way we live and work. Embracing sustainability is not just a strategic option but a clear winning bet that benefits us all—one whose results are already tangible at environmental, social, and business levels.
Blanca Guerrero, ESG Coordinator at Verdian
