Italy Embraces Sustainability: The Role of Non-Financial Reporting in Public Administration

Towards a Greener and More Responsible Future

The shift towards sustainability in business activities has been a well-established practice for several years in Northern Europe, where companies and public administrations have integrated social and environmental responsibility principles into their daily operations. In Italy, however, this collective move towards sustainability is relatively recent. Fortunately, our country is quickly adapting to these new socio-environmental policies, which are revolutionizing how public administrations operate and interact with citizens.

Public administrations, as the main representatives of collective interests, are called upon to follow the ongoing path of change. This implies a significant shift in their approach to their areas of competence. One of the most effective strategies for implementing this change is the adoption of a non-financial report, or sustainability report. This tool allows for the immediate and clear communication, even for non-experts, of the social and environmental activities undertaken in accordance with sustainability.

The adoption of sustainability reports produces a series of positive and well-identifiable effects. Firstly, it allows administrations to gain a high margin of public consensus. This consensus can be a significant advantage during the electoral campaign period, as demonstrated by the increase in lists defending the environment, animals, and social minorities. During the mandate, a high approval rating produced by sensitivity to certain issues can translate into strong support and political cohesion, facilitating the implementation of sustainable policies.

Another significant advantage concerns the additional points that administrations receive when participating in national and European tenders and funding opportunities. In fact, there are increasingly numerous calls that award extra points to administrations that demonstrate attention to specific thematic areas, such as environmental and social sustainability. This can translate into greater opportunities to obtain funding and support for innovative and sustainable projects.

The adoption of sustainability reports should lead to an effective improvement in the administrative attitudes pursued to date. This change not only promotes more responsible and transparent practices but also gives a new, youthful, and clean image to administrations, which are the main social mirror. An administration committed to sustainability reflects the values of a modern and aware society, ready to face the environmental and social challenges of our time.

In Italy, the regulatory framework supporting the adoption of sustainability reports is well-defined. Legislative Decree 254/2016, for instance, implements Directive 2014/95/EU of the European Parliament, requiring large companies and groups to disclose non-financial and diversity information. This decree represents a milestone for administrations that wish to integrate sustainability into their operations. Similarly, Law 221/2015, which introduces green economy measures and aims to reduce excessive use of natural resources, and EU Regulation 2020/852, which promotes sustainable investments, are fundamental in promoting sustainable practices in public administrations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the adoption of sustainability reports represents a fundamental turning point for Italian public administrations. Not only does it improve the transparency and accountability of their operations, but it also strengthens their bond with citizens, promoting a collective and sustainable vision for the future. Administrations that embrace this change will be able to respond more effectively to society’s needs, contributing to creating a healthier and more inclusive environment for all.