CSRD driving innovation

Larger firms across the EU are now required to report under the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). CSRD aims to increase transparency and comparability of corporate sustainability reporting and facilitate the transition to a sustainable economy. It requires companies to report on a wide range of sustainability topics, including environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, human rights and anti-corruption measures.

Gianluca comments: “Firms are now at a critical juncture, navigating trade-offs between short-term financial goals and long-term sustainability imperatives.

“CSRD is a prime example of how regulation can go beyond compliance to serve as a catalyst for innovation.

“By mandating transparent reporting on environmental impacts, the CSRD not only holds firms accountable but also encourages them to rethink processes, adopt new technologies, and develop innovative solutions to meet sustainability goals. This regulatory push aligns firms’ strategic priorities with broader environmental and social objectives, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

“As a researcher, I am actively engaged in studying the economic and innovation dynamics of the twin transition, particularly its implications for firm performance and sustainability outcomes.  The growing availability of firm-level data also makes it possible to generate new empirical insights into this emerging and impactful topic.

This track aligns closely with my research interests and aims to foster discussions and collaborations to advance understanding in this critical area.”

Track 2.7 When green meets digital: Understanding the ‘twin’ transition of firms

The term “twin” transition refers to the combined advancement of sustainability (green) and digital transformations, which are both expected to have significant economic impacts.

Digital technologies are reshaping business operations, offering opportunities for growth and productivity improvements, however the environmental footprint of digital infrastructure—such as increased energy consumption and electronic waste—poses serious sustainability challenges.

Although the digital and green transitions are often considered separately, firms are increasingly recognising their interconnected nature.

The proposed track aims to collect contributions that provide empirical evidence on the factors enabling or hindering the twin transition at the firm level. Contributions will address the theoretical, empirical, and policy implications of this dual transition, emphasizing their intersection.

Find Gianluca on LinkedIn here.