[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”9px|||||” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px|auto||auto||” custom_padding=”1px||15px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n
Sustainability is no longer just an image topic for mid-sized companies. It now determines competitiveness, financing conditions, tenders and the stability of supply chains. The rules of the game in the market are changing: financing is becoming data-driven, tenders require CO\u2082 transparency, supply chains are being reassessed and customers increasingly prefer products that are efficient, durable and resource-saving.<\/strong><\/p>\n This puts ESG more firmly into the spotlight. ESG stands for Environmental, Social and Governance \u2013 in other words, environment, social responsibility and good corporate governance. In practice, this means: how efficiently a company uses energy and resources (E), how it treats people in its supply chain and workforce (S), and how well processes, data and decisions are managed (G). These are exactly the areas that increasingly determine how a company is perceived in the market \u2013 and whether it remains economically future-proof.<\/p>\n Of course, ESG brings additional effort \u2013 like any strategic transformation. But not taking action has now become the more expensive option. Those who act early lay the foundations for measurable economic advantages: lower costs, more stable supply chains, new markets and more attractive financing conditions. The effort pays off \u2013 often faster than expected.<\/p>\n So the key question is no longer: \u201cDo we need ESG?\u201d but: \u201cHow can we use ESG in a targeted way as a success factor for our business model?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n Some companies are still waiting to see whether ESG will become \u201crelevant enough\u201d. But the transformation is already underway in every country, every region, every industry \u2013 regardless of whether you actively participate or not. And that is precisely where the risk lies: those who act too late can only react and have twice as much to catch up later \u2013 twice as much to invest \u2013 or will simply be left behind.<\/p>\n The fact is: companies that lag behind in the transformation are increasingly experiencing the following effects:<\/p>\n 1. Financing becomes more expensive:<\/strong> 2. Key accounts are switching suppliers:<\/strong> 3. Energy and material costs are rising in the long term:<\/strong> 4. Market share is shifting:<\/strong> 5. Employer attractiveness declines:<\/strong> 6. Compliance and reputational risks increase:<\/strong> I don\u2019t want to scare you with this. The goal is not pressure, but strengthening your ability to act. The good news is: all of these risks can be addressed with the same measures that drive companies forward economically anyway \u2013 more efficient processes, better data, new business models and a clear strategy!<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In over 15 years of working with mid-sized companies, six levers have proven particularly decisive at Terra Institute:<\/span><\/p>\n Below, you\u2019ll find a brief overview of these levers and the opportunities they create. A detailed blog post with practical examples from our experts will follow shortly for each lever; we\u2019ll link to them after the list of levers.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Die Pl\u00e4tze sind auf maximal 20 Teilnehmer:innen begrenzt. Dies erm\u00f6glicht uns einen besseren Austausch und auch die M\u00f6glichkeit, auf alle Fragen einzugehen.<\/p>\n F\u00fcr eine bessere Planung ist die Anmeldung verbindlich. Sollte dennoch nach Anmeldung etwas dazwischenkommen und die Teilnahme nicht m\u00f6glich sein, bitten wir um eine schnellstm\u00f6gliche Absage unter a.unger@terra-institute.eu<\/a>.<\/p>\n Die Kosten f\u00fcr die zwei Hoff\u00fchrungen und Verk\u00f6stigung werden vom Projekt \u00fcbernommen. Die Fahrtkosten sowie die Organisation der Anfahrt, Abfahrt und Transport zwischen den H\u00f6fen sind von den Teilnehmer:innen selbst zu \u00fcbernehmen. Bei einem JA im Formular teilen wir die Kontaktdaten der Teilnehmer:innen, um Fahrgemeinschaften zu erm\u00f6glichen.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on=”on|on|on” module_id=”anmeldung” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Dann schicken Sie uns doch gerne eine Nachricht mit Ihren Fragen an office@terra-institute.eu<\/a>.<\/p>\n Bei gen\u00fcgend Interessent:innen werden wir das Webinar erneut veranstalten.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_toggle title=”1. Embedding ESG in corporate strategy” module_id=”strategie” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Many companies already have PV systems, electric vehicles or their first ESG reports \u2013 but often there is no common thread: which measures truly support the business model? Which priorities make strategic sense?<\/p>\n An integrated ESG strategy enables you to:<\/p>\n Align investments clearly with value creation<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Make risks and opportunities transparent<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Strengthen your position in tenders and discussions with banks<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Provide orientation for managers and employees<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n By the way: to get started, you generally don\u2019t need your own dedicated department. Often, one clearly responsible person and a cross-functional steering committee are enough. Structures then grow with the task.<\/p>\n Link to the article<\/a> (available from January 15th)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”3. Circularity: reducing material costs, opening up new markets” module_id=”ce” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n For many companies, resource use is the largest cost factor. Circularity \/ circular economy reduces dependencies and opens up new revenue models.<\/p>\n Examples from mid-sized companies:<\/p>\n Retail:<\/strong> refurbish returns and offer them at a lower price instead of writing them off<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Mechanical engineering:<\/strong> optimised maintenance, circular spare parts, service models (renting instead of selling)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Construction:<\/strong> circular components enable targeted deconstruction and reuse<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The result: higher margins, lower price risks, more attractive products.<\/p>\n Link to the article<\/a> (available from February 4th)<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”5. ESG data & reporting as a management basis” module_id=”reporting” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Many companies have measures in place \u2013 but no transparent data basis. With a few relevant KPIs, costs can be reduced, decisions improved and reporting significantly simplified.<\/p>\n Important are:<\/p>\n Data on energy, CO\u2082, waste, water consumption and key supplier indicators<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Clearly defined data processes<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Simple digital tools (from meters to ESG software)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The result: with reliable data, efficiency and speed increase \u2013 and your financial attractiveness to banks and customers improves.<\/p>\n Link to the article<\/a> (available from February 18th)<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_toggle title=”2. Decarbonisation & energy efficiency \u2013 rapid economic impact” module_id=”dekarbonisierung” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Energy is one of the largest cost blocks in mid-sized companies. Every optimised system, every reduction in peak loads, every PV installation directly affects the profit and loss statement \u2013 and improves both the CO\u2082 balance and financing conditions.<\/p>\n Effective starting points:<\/p>\n Process optimisation & control technology<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Replacing old machinery with efficient technology<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Switching to renewable energy (PV, heat pumps, waste heat utilisation)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Analysing fleet and business travel for economically viable e-mobility<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The result: lower operating costs, greater planning reliability, better ratings.<\/p>\n Link to the article<\/a> (available from January 29th)<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”4. Making supply chains stable and compliant” module_id=”lieferketten” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n With CSDDD, CSRD and internal climate targets, the need for ESG information in large companies is increasing. For mid-sized businesses, this means: those who can provide transparency remain able to deliver and win new contracts.<\/p>\n A pragmatic starting point:<\/p>\n Identify key suppliers<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Prepare a simple ESG questionnaire<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Conduct risk and location assessments<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Communicate minimum standards<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Develop improvements together<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The result: stable supply chains become a true competitive advantage.<\/p>\n Link to the article<\/a> (available from February 11th)<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=”6. Enabling employees: building culture & competence” module_id=”bildungkultur” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Kultur: Orientierung, F\u00fchrung & Zusammenarbeit als Fundament<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Effective ESG alignment needs more than technology and processes \u2013 it needs a culture that guides decisions and brings employees along. Purpose, vision and mission show what the company stands for and how sustainability strengthens its future viability. Managers play a key role: they set priorities, make clear decisions and ensure that ESG is embedded in day-to-day work.<\/p>\n Key cultural building blocks:<\/p>\n Clear alignment: connect purpose, vision and mission with ESG<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Define the role of leadership: provide orientation, explain decisions, act as role models<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Strengthen diversity, equity & inclusion: different perspectives foster innovation and employer attractiveness<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Communication: convey goals, progress and expectations in an understandable and transparent way<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The result: a strong culture creates the foundation for measures to take effect more quickly \u2013 and for sustainability to be understood and supported as an economic topic.<\/p>\n Measures only become effective when employees understand what impact they can have. Education and training are therefore among the strongest levers of transformation \u2013 and are often the point in mid-sized companies where ESG really \u201cstarts to move\u201d.<\/p>\n Effective starting points:<\/p>\n Practice-oriented training (online\/offline) on topics such as energy, CO\u2082, circularity, supply chain or reporting, and on the role of managers, specialist departments and operational teams<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Workshops & idea programmes for quick wins and employee engagement<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Pilot projects to test new solutions on a small scale and gain experience<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The result: faster improvements, better everyday decisions and greater employer attractiveness.<\/p>\n By the way: Terra Academy<\/strong> supports companies with role-specific e-learnings and live trainings that are specially designed for mid-sized structures \u2013 pragmatic, easy to understand and directly applicable.<\/p>\n Link to the article<\/a> (available from February 24th)<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px|auto||auto||” custom_padding=”1px||15px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n To ensure these levers have the greatest possible impact, the following principles have proven themselves in successful transformation projects:<\/p>\n Build partnerships along the value chain:<\/strong> innovation rarely happens in isolation!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Rethink capex (capital expenditure):<\/strong> prioritise investments that measurably strengthen efficiency, CO\u2082 reduction or circular processes!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Use opex models (operating expenditure):<\/strong> service and rental models reduce capital commitment and lower risk!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Professionalise data architecture:<\/strong> financial, operational and sustainability data belong in one integrated management system!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Prioritise pilot fields:<\/strong> start where impact and scaling potential are greatest!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Companies that use sustainability strategically benefit above all in four areas:<\/p>\n Those who integrate ESG into their strategy early on, use energy and materials more efficiently, understand their supply chains and work with data are building today the competitive edge of tomorrow.<\/p>\n Terra Institute<\/strong> supports companies precisely at this interface \u2013 from strategy, decarbonisation, circularity, supply chains and reporting through to leadership and culture.<\/p>\n Terra Academy<\/strong> provides the necessary know-how so that people understand transformation and can actively shape it.<\/p>\n In the next articles in this series, we will delve deeper into each lever \u2013 with practical examples, cost-benefit calculations and concrete entry options.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Die Pl\u00e4tze sind auf maximal 20 Teilnehmer:innen begrenzt. Dies erm\u00f6glicht uns einen besseren Austausch und auch die M\u00f6glichkeit, auf alle Fragen einzugehen.<\/p>\n F\u00fcr eine bessere Planung ist die Anmeldung verbindlich. Sollte dennoch nach Anmeldung etwas dazwischenkommen und die Teilnahme nicht m\u00f6glich sein, bitten wir um eine schnellstm\u00f6gliche Absage unter a.unger@terra-institute.eu<\/a>.<\/p>\n Die Kosten f\u00fcr die zwei Hoff\u00fchrungen und Verk\u00f6stigung werden vom Projekt \u00fcbernommen. Die Fahrtkosten sowie die Organisation der Anfahrt, Abfahrt und Transport zwischen den H\u00f6fen sind von den Teilnehmer:innen selbst zu \u00fcbernehmen. Bei einem JA im Formular teilen wir die Kontaktdaten der Teilnehmer:innen, um Fahrgemeinschaften zu erm\u00f6glichen.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on=”on|on|on” module_id=”anmeldung” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Dann schicken Sie uns doch gerne eine Nachricht mit Ihren Fragen an office@terra-institute.eu<\/a>.<\/p>\n Bei gen\u00fcgend Interessent:innen werden wir das Webinar erneut veranstalten.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”22px|auto||auto||” custom_padding=”1px||15px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_button button_url=”#anmeldung” button_text=”Zur Anmeldung” disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||-2px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/terra-institute.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Kim-Y.-Muehl.jpg” alt=”Profilfoto Kim Y. Muehl” title_text=”Kim Y. Muehl” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Die Pl\u00e4tze sind auf maximal 20 Teilnehmer:innen begrenzt. Dies erm\u00f6glicht uns einen besseren Austausch und auch die M\u00f6glichkeit, auf alle Fragen einzugehen.<\/p>\n F\u00fcr eine bessere Planung ist die Anmeldung verbindlich. Sollte dennoch nach Anmeldung etwas dazwischenkommen und die Teilnahme nicht m\u00f6glich sein, bitten wir um eine schnellstm\u00f6gliche Absage unter a.unger@terra-institute.eu<\/a>.<\/p>\n Die Kosten f\u00fcr die zwei Hoff\u00fchrungen und Verk\u00f6stigung werden vom Projekt \u00fcbernommen. Die Fahrtkosten sowie die Organisation der Anfahrt, Abfahrt und Transport zwischen den H\u00f6fen sind von den Teilnehmer:innen selbst zu \u00fcbernehmen. Bei einem JA im Formular teilen wir die Kontaktdaten der Teilnehmer:innen, um Fahrgemeinschaften zu erm\u00f6glichen.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text disabled_on=”on|on|on” module_id=”anmeldung” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Dann schicken Sie uns doch gerne eine Nachricht mit Ihren Fragen an office@terra-institute.eu<\/a>.<\/p>\n Bei gen\u00fcgend Interessent:innen werden wir das Webinar erneut veranstalten.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\nChange is happening \u2013 with or without us<\/h3>\n
Banks are increasingly linking their lending to ESG data. Companies that cannot present reliable data on energy, emissions, supply chains or how they deal with climate risks appear riskier from a bank\u2019s perspective. The result can be poorer financing conditions, higher interest rates or even rejected loan applications. For companies that want to invest, modernise or grow, this can quickly become a serious competitive disadvantage.<\/p>\n
Due to supply chain laws, Scope 3 targets and internal climate strategies, large companies expect transparency from their suppliers. Those who cannot provide this transparency or cause above-average emissions lose business opportunities \u2013 often without it being communicated explicitly. SMEs that are heavily dependent on a few major customers are exposed to a very real revenue risk here.<\/p>\n
Energy prices, raw material costs and CO\u2082 prices have not only risen in recent years, they are also remaining volatile. Companies that do not improve their processes and efficiency or fail to build alternatives will, in the long run, pay significantly higher operating costs than competitors who leverage energy efficiency, waste heat recovery or circular processes.<\/p>\n
Products that are repairable, durable, resource-efficient or climate-friendly are increasingly gaining ground. Companies that do not meet these expectations quickly appear expensive, outdated or risky. Those who react too late and continue to produce in a linear way risk losing price advantages and differentiation opportunities \u2013 and ultimately market share.<\/p>\n
Young talent in particular increasingly expects clarity: what does the company stand for, how future-proof is it, how responsibly does it operate? Employers without a clear ESG strategy quickly appear unattractive \u2013 and lose talent to more modern competitors. This exacerbates existing bottlenecks, increases recruitment costs and impairs the company\u2019s innovative strength.<\/p>\n
Without solid ESG data, the risk of errors in reports, documentation or regulatory submissions rises. Compliance violations can lead to fines, sanctions or legal problems \u2013 and in the worst case to public criticism. Companies that cannot substantiate their sustainability claims also run the risk of being suspected of \u201cgreenwashing\u201d.<\/p>\nThe six most effective ESG levers for mid-sized companies<\/h3>\n
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Teilnehmeranzahl begrenzt!<\/h3>\n
Verbindlichkeit<\/h3>\n
Kosten und Transport<\/h3>\n
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Webinar verpasst?<\/h3>\n
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Culture: orientation, leadership & collaboration as the foundation<\/h4>\n
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Enabling employees \u2013 knowledge, skills & implementation power<\/h4>\n
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Playbook: how mid-sized companies use ESG to open up new markets<\/h3>\n
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Conclusion: ESG is a business lever \u2013 not additional overhead<\/h3>\n
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Teilnehmeranzahl begrenzt!<\/h3>\n
Verbindlichkeit<\/h3>\n
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Teilnehmeranzahl begrenzt!<\/h3>\n
Verbindlichkeit<\/h3>\n
Kosten und Transport<\/h3>\n
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Webinar verpasst?<\/h3>\n