In the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility, integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria has become essential for the sustainable operation of businesses. The 2025 annual research by the Centre for Sustainability and Excellence (CSE) sheds light on the current state of ESG adoption among Greek companies, highlighting both progress and areas needing improvement.

Key Findings:

• Profitability Linked to ESG Performance: Data collected from over 200 companies in Europe and North America in 2024 indicate that firms with high ESG ratings achieved, on average, 15% higher profitability compared to those with lower ESG performance.Center for Sustainability & Excellence
• Greek Companies’ ESG Ratings: In Greece, 79% of companies publishing sustainability reports and evaluated by major ESG rating agencies, such as S&P 500, have moderate to high ESG ratings. Sectors like industry (notably non-metallic mineral products, metal products, petroleum, and coal products) and energy show the highest performance. Conversely, sectors such as retail and gambling lag in ESG practices.Center for Sustainability & Excellence
• Challenges in ESG Implementation: Despite progress, Greek businesses face significant challenges in ESG implementation. Only 32% of companies in Greece conduct external assurance of their sustainability reports, and even fewer set clear ESG goals. This lack of transparency can undermine the credibility of their reports and reduce their attractiveness to ESG-focused investors.Center for Sustainability & Excellence
• Setting Clear ESG Goals: Approximately 65% of Greek companies in the energy and heavy industry sectors have already set binding targets for emission reductions by 2030. However, among the 160 companies publishing sustainability reports in Greece, only 28% have established reliable ESG objectives.Center for Sustainability & Excellence

Conclusion:

Effective integration of ESG practices is no longer optional but a necessary condition for the sustainable development and competitiveness of Greek businesses in the international arena. Companies that recognize and adapt to this dynamic are more likely to thrive in the future market landscape.Center for Sustainability & Excellence

This opinion piece was originally published in the Sunday edition of “To Vima” – Special Edition.