Bridging Sustainability and Innovation: Insights from My Recent Interview
I recently had the opportunity to engage in an insightful discussion that went far beyond the expected timeframe, a testament to the richness of the topics covered. The conversation revolved around my experience in EU-funded projects, the growing influence of corporate ESG compliance, and the challenges that both European and Latin American companies face in adapting to evolving sustainability regulations. It was an enriching exchange that highlighted key trends and obstacles in the fields of environmental policy, circular economy, and sustainable construction.
Jorge BARONA
2/19/20252 min read
1. My Journey in EU-Funded Projects
Over the years, I have participated in multiple EU-funded initiatives under FP7, Horizon 2020, and Horizon Europe, focusing on sustainability, regulatory compliance, and economic feasibility. These projects, such as Remadyl, Moebios, Ellipse, and Circle, aim to develop innovative solutions that support environmental and economic transformation. The Horizon Europe framework, in particular, continues to push boundaries by funding research and technological advancements that contribute to the EU Green Deal objectives.
2. Corporate ESG Compliance and the Impact of EU Regulations
One of the major topics of discussion was the increasing role of regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and the Nature Restoration Law. These policies demand stricter environmental and human rights due diligence from companies operating within the EU and globally. While these frameworks help drive sustainability, they also create significant compliance challenges for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) outside of Europe. Latin American companies, for example, often struggle with the financial and human resource constraints necessary to meet these requirements.
3. Project Spotlights: Remadyl, Moebios, Ellipse, and Circle
Each of these projects represents a different aspect of sustainability and circular economy:
Remadyl focuses on removing hazardous substances from PVC and promoting recycling.
Moebios is dedicated to developing bio-based materials and promoting sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics.
Ellipse explores innovative packaging solutions aligned with circular economy principles.
Circle aims to enhance material recovery and efficiency in various industrial sectors.
These projects highlight how EU funding fosters innovation while aligning industries with the European Green Deal’s sustainability objectives.
4. Construction and Resource Extraction: Balancing Development and Environmental Impact
The construction sector plays a crucial role in both economic growth and environmental sustainability. A significant challenge is mitigating the impact of raw material extraction (e.g., cement, sand, and timber) on biodiversity and ecosystems. The Nature Restoration Law sets ambitious targets for restoring degraded land, which means the construction industry must adopt more sustainable practices. In Latin America, where resource extraction is a major economic driver, balancing economic benefits with environmental responsibility remains a pressing issue.
5. Challenges for Local Companies in EU and Nationally Funded Projects
Participating in EU-funded projects offers numerous benefits, including financial support, knowledge exchange, and access to cutting-edge research. However, non-EU companies, particularly SMEs, face several challenges:
Regulatory complexity: Understanding and complying with EU legal frameworks can be daunting.
Financial limitations: Implementing the required sustainability measures often requires significant investment.
Technical expertise: Many companies lack the in-house capabilities to navigate environmental and social governance (ESG) requirements effectively.