Gender equality certification: 10 million from Lombardy Region to support virtuous enterprises
The Lombardy region has published the call for proposals “Toward gender equality certification” with which it intends to support virtuous enterprises in the Lombardy region in the path geared toward obtaining certification. Let’s see what it consists of, what the requirements are and how to apply for funding. Gender equality certification: what the Lombardy Region grant consists of After approving the Guidelines of the measure to support Lombardy businesses dedicated to gender equality certification, the Lombardy Region has provided grants through the publication of a call for proposals aimed at supporting local businesses. The budget is 10 million euros divided into two lines: Line A: provides resources of 4 million euros earmarked for Certification Accompanying Consulting Services. The contribution is provided in the form of vouchers up to a maximum of 7,000.00 euros; Line B: provides resources of 6 million euros for the Gender Equality Certification Service; specifically, reimbursement of expenses incurred in obtaining the certification is financed . The contribution is provided in the form of vouchers up to a maximum of 9,000.00 euros. The application for funding can be submitted from February 1, 2023 until December 13, 2024. The grant is awarded based on the chronological order of arrival of applications. Lombardy Region funding: the requirements for accessing the notice Enterprises applying for Lombardy Region funding inherent in consulting services accompanying gender parity certification must necessarily also apply for that intended for obtaining certification. The following requirements must be met by the enterprise to qualify for the call: Have an active operational headquarters in the Lombardy Region or, if VAT-registered, have a tax domicile in Lombardy; Be a micro, small and medium-sized enterprise; be duly registered and active in the Register of Enterprises or have a VAT number at the time of submission of the application; Have at least one employee in the workforce on the date of application. Grants, for both available funding lines, are disbursed only after the company obtains gender certification and reports on expenses incurred. Certification of gender equality: what it’s all about Law no. 162/2021 introduced nationwide certification of gender equality, which then came into effect on January 1, 2022. Enterprises that want to take the path to certification must demonstrate that they have taken certain concrete measures aimed at reducing the gender gap, such as: equal career opportunities, equal job pay levels, policies for managing gender differences, and maternity protection. Gender equality certification helps to close the existing gap between men and women by promoting the adoption of gender equality policies in terms of pay and careers, parenting protection, harmonization of work-life balance, and improving women’s access to the labor market and in corporate leadership. It can be applied for by any type of business, regardless of size or activity. How to achieve gender parity certification: the UNI/PdR 125:2022 UNI/PdR 125:2022 “Guidelines on Management System for Gender Equality” came into force on March 16, 2022. With the Decree of April 29, 2022 of the Ministry of Equal Opportunity, it was transposed as the reference standard for verifying the parameters required to obtain gender equality certification. The Reference Practice provides, through KPIs, for the measurement, reporting and evaluation of gender-related data in order to close the existing gap; this enables the integration of a new paradigm based on gender equality, producing sustainable and lasting change in the organization. Gender equality certification: the benefits for businesses Gender equality certification takes on both an ethical value and a social and sustainable development value for businesses. It is a path aimed at equity, equality and inclusion. Companies that achieve certification trigger virtuous circles that are good for the company itself and for society; they strengthen their reputation, attract more talent, access tax breaks and obtain rewards in the Italian and European calls for tenders in which they participate, and increase competitiveness in the market. Gender equality certification: rely on our team The Lombardy Region is showing concrete support for local businesses. Gender parity certification is an opportunity for all companies that want to be truly sustainable, that want to contribute to improving labor standards by closing the gender gap, demonstrating in a tangible and transparent way the commitment made and the actions implemented. At Tecno, we support companies in implementing a business paradigm in which the principles of gender equality are concretely integrated into business objectives. By relying on our team you get personalized advice; we do this by structuring sustainability pathways that meet your company’s needs, requirements and priorities. To access the funding lines and define a project that is in line with the Lombardy Region’s evaluation parameters, rely on us. With Tecno you innovate corporate culture in a transparent and certified way.
KPMG and Tecno: the first ESG Observatory for Italian SMEs is born
Defining strategies and implementing projects aimed at sustainability: the first ESG Observatory targets small and medium-sized Italian companies. Tecno and KPMG, in collaboration with UCL London, have launched the first ESG Observatory, an innovative initiative to support companies on their path to sustainable growth. ESG Observatory: the background Transferring the value of sustainability to companies and making their position in relation to the market stand out: this is the goal of the ESG Observatory, which was presented to the press on Jan. 30 at our Naples headquarters at Palazzo Ischitella. Joining our President Giovanni Lombardi at the speakers’ table were Marco Maffei, partner at KPMG, and Paolo Taticchi, professor at UCL. “The social role of companies is one of the great themes of Agenda 2030, Tecno has created over the years an established relationship with the world of education and research. Inaugurating the ESG Observatory with KPMG means reconciling our commitment with what has been Tecno’s core business for years: guiding SMEs in creating value through a sustainable and digital transformation process made of SustainTech services.” John Lombardi, president of the Tecno Group ESG observatory: the project for the sustainable transition of SMEs The ESG Observatory is the research project that, through the definition of a scientific method of evaluation, aims to focus attention on the health status of Italian SMEs with respect to the ongoing sustainable transition process. “KPMG has been supporting large companies and SMEs for years in tackling the sustainability challenge; I am particularly proud, therefore, to bring together our 20 years of experience at KPMG in this area with that of two partners of excellence such as UCL and Tecno to create an ambitious project that can provide companies and the market with timely and comprehensive information about the positioning achieved by SMEs in Italy towards the sustainable transition.” Marco Maffei, KPMG partner Virtuous paths for Italian SMEs: the task of the ESG Observatory With the ESG Observatory, we bring to the attention of companies the importance of implementing and communicating ESG performance; factors critical to an inherent assessment of the company’s ability to create value, generate opportunities, and reduce risk exposure. Our job is to gather all the information about the identity, location and status of the enterprise so that we can define and implement tailored strategies; provide them with effective products and services for sustainable transition. UCL research assistant: Tecno and KPMG During the ESG Observatory presentation, we sponsored a research assistant position at the UCL School of Management in London. The researcher’s task will be geared toward defining evaluation parameters for the study of SMEs; leading the project will be Professor Paolo Taticchi. ESG Observatory and Sustainability Cluster The ESG Observatory was created in line with the goals we set when we created the Sustainability Cluster. The valuable partnerships formed to date enable us to provide and apply diverse expertise and knowledge in the ESG field; companies, research centers and universities converging into a single network available to SMEs. Sustainability is a strategic lever and a competitive opportunity; it is an indispensable element in maintaining and building trusting relationships with partners, customers and suppliers, as well as a guarantee for investors and lenders. Our goal is to increase awareness of the sustainable practices that every company should adopt; to create a strategic pathway aimed at sustainability in its three areas: environmental, social and governance. The sustainable transition can no longer be postponed; you need to adapt your business to ESG strategies, processes and investments. ESG criteria and corporate sustainability: supporting SMEs SMEs are key players in the national business environment. Through the ESG Observatory, we investigate their level of knowledge and awareness about environmental risks and the effects these can have on business; in this way we can structure effective strategies to mitigate them. We want to concretely bring small and medium-sized companies closer to ESG criteria, make sure that their centrality in business strategies is recognized. The engagement process we have undertaken over the years with other companies in the Italian business fabric allows us to consolidate shared goals in line with those of Agenda 2030. Our support for SMEs translates into concrete actions aimed at creating customized business sustainability strategies.
Tecno ESG: Group’s first company to transform to Benefit
Our Tecno ESG becomes a Benefit Society, an almost natural upgrade for a company that has already achieved excellent results in such a short time. This event ushers in a new path, aimed at maintaining commitments and fulfilling all business interests. Let us know the details of this development. A new year of common benefit Only twelve months after its incorporation, Tecno ESG, the youngest company in our Group, became a Benefit Society by identifying the first common benefit objectives it intends to pursue. An important step, an achievement that makes us proud because it is the result of thoughtful choices and hard work. Tecno ESG was established in 2022 and represents the area of the Group engaged in the proposition of corporate sustainability services, including ESG pathways and interventions aimed at reducing/mitigating harmful air emissions. Aimed essentially at companies, of all sizes and industrial sectors, that intend to embark on an innovative and sustainable path, Tecno ESG’s offer has already won over numerous realities, proving successful because it is effective, competitive and, above all, transparent. Despite the short time since its inception, Tecno ESG’s numbers (as of Sept. 30, 2022) tell a story with excellent future prospects: a team of 18 environmental sustainability experts, more than 155 contracts signed in one year, numerous partnerships established with Italian realities and universities, and an already outstanding client portfolio. This change, for the common benefit, becomes an expression of a renewing will: to continue to promote sustainable, therefore innovative, environmentally and community-friendly business models. From measurement culture to social promotion: the goals Transformation into a Benefit Society involves not only changing its legal form, but also including in its bylaws the common benefit purposes that Tecno ESG has chosen to pursue; as well as monitoring the actions taken through specific figures and an annual impact report. The Society thus declares its readiness to work to ensure that entrepreneurial and social welfare are always guaranteed. Promote the culture of measuring and managing environmental, social and governance impacts, including through high-value technology services and products; To fuel awareness of sustainability issues through collaborations with virtuous and innovative entities in the public and private sectors, aiming to reach as wide an audience as possible; Create and promote a stimulating and collaborative work environment, always ensuring work-life balance, fostering local employment, and promoting a young and inclusive workforce; To initiate initiatives for social promotion, cultural interest and protection and enhancement of artistic heritage, including through conservation and restoration of works of art and architectural heritage. Social commitment: an issue that has always been attended to by the entire Group Commitment to the welfare of the territory, of people, and of the community is a distinguishing and characterizing element of our Group, which from the very beginning has been attentive to the interests of society, young people, and environmental protection. A commitment witnessed by the many initiatives and projects launched in support of art and culture, technological innovation and professional training. A commitment that at the same time enriches us and pushes us toward new and interesting challenges, always consistent with the company’s mission and ethics. The evolution into a Benefit Society of one of the most competitive areas of our reality becomes, therefore, a natural evolution. An inevitable upgrade for those who choose to continue pursuing entrepreneurial for-profit goals together with the new common benefit purposes, through daily, ordinary and unified actions. The change of Tecno ESG to Benefit Society inaugurates the direction our Group has chosen to take, aimed at extending this path to other Tecno entities as well.
Business sustainability and sartorial tradition: the fourth Tecno Talks event
We have reached the fourth and final event of 2022 Tecno Talks, our series of events dedicated to business sustainability. Once again the historic location of Palazzo Ischitella opened its doors to distinguished guests for the event entitled “Fashion and Sustainability: the excellence of E. Marinella.” The excellence of ties made in Italy: from Naples to Buckingham Palace On Wednesday, November 30, the fourth event in the Tecno Talks cycle, our format for promoting and telling the story of business sustainability, was held. On this occasion, President Giovanni Lombardi invited “neighbor” Maurizio Marinella to tell the ultra-centennial story of E. Marinella; excellence from Campania that started from the nearby headquarters in Via Riviera di Chaia arriving to conquer the international market. The event, moderated as always by Simone Filippetti and with the valuable presence of our sustainability advisor Paolo Taticchi, allowed participants-in the room and online-to discover numerous tidbits about the historic Neapolitan boutique and its patron. During the meeting it emerged that the Italian-style business model–based on historicity and succession of generations–is still extremely valid and appreciated around the world, even becoming in some cases a case study as well as a model to strive for. History and enterprise, professional and personal anecdotes: Marinella told about his appointment as Cavaliere del Lavoro in 2011, his line of ties and scarves made entirely from a fabric derived from orange peels, and again about the exhibition of some of his items at MoMa in New York in 2017. The museum asked the company for some of its iconic garments-first and foremost the tie-to tell the story of contemporary fashion. Marinella also wanted to remind the audience of the true meaning of sustainability. Which certainly refers to environmental issues, but also has a broader meaning related to the social sphere. We promote corporate sustainability and ESG strategies with a winning format As a company grows, several factors must be taken into account, but you must first understand how important it is to integrate sustainability into your business model, and that is the mission of Tecno Talks. From Simone Filippetti to the audience in the audience, from Paolo Taticchi to Maurizio Marinella, participants also shared experiences, suggestions, scenarios, awareness and concerns in this latest Tecno Talks. And as our advisor Paolo Taticchi reminds us in closing, the only winning strategy for the future of business is characterized by the ESG approach, for the environment, for society, for the company. Monitor our social channels to find out when the next Tecno Talks will be held, the first in 2023.
Sustainability reporting: why and how to comply with new obligations
This content was updated on 11/29/2022 The CSRD directive has been adopted, approved first by the Parliament and then by the European Council. Soon the sustainability reporting requirement will come into effect affecting a very wide range of companies, including SMEs. Let’s see together what will happen in the coming months and what companies can do to comply and not fall behind. Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive: all set for entry into force On Nov. 10, 2022, the European Parliament finally adopted the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). CSRD extends the non-financial reporting requirement to more companies, including SMEs, by requiring them to publish a sustainability report as a document to inform the public of the impact that the company and its activities have on society, the environment, people, and the planet, including indicating the sustainability risks to which it is exposed. The CSRD is an extension of the Non Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD), designed to amend the latter in a process that began on April 21, 2021. This process ended with the European Council’s approval on November 28, 2022; now member states must adopt the new rules within 18 months. CSRD will be equated with NFRD. Recall that the latter was transposed into our legal system through Legislative Decree. 254/2016 and introduced the Non-Financial Statement (DNF) requirement for public interest entities. Sustainability reporting: the gradual entry into force of the obligation The sustainability reporting requirement will be phased in gradually and will gradually affect more and more companies: From January 1, 2024: large public interest enterprises (PIEs) with more than 500 employees already obligated today to prepare and publish DNF (Non-Financial Statement). Reporting 2025 on fiscal year 2024; From January 1, 2025: large enterprises not yet required to publish DNF with more than 250 employees and/or €40 million in turnover and/or €20 million in total assets. Reporting 2026 on fiscal year 2025; From January 1, 2026: listed small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), excluding microenterprises, small and non-complex lending institutions, and captive insurance companies. Reporting 2027 on fiscal year 2026; From Jan. 1, 2027: third-country companies with at least one branch in the European territory and a net turnover of 150 million euros in the EU. Until 2028, SMEs can choose not to participate, although-as we shall see-this would result in a disadvantageous action for the enterprise itself. Sustainability reporting should be part of the management report, a document that has so far been mandatory only for publicly traded companies, thus becoming an integral part of corporate reporting. Purpose of CSRD and sustainability reporting standards The new Directive was introduced to meet several needs. First and foremost is to eliminate the shortcomings inherent in the NFRD, which was considered to be lacking in transparency about social, environmental impacts and European climate goals. CSRD also aims to reduce greenwashing events, strengthen the European social market economy and lay the new foundation for global corporate sustainability standards. During 2023, the European Commission will adopt new rules useful for CSRD implementation; at the moment, there is still no final format for sustainability reporting. On the other hand, as far as reference standards are concerned, the body in charge in June 2020-the EFRAG (European Financial Reporting Advisory Group)-approved the final version of the ESRS (European Sustainability Reporting Standards). These set out the rules and requirements for sustainability reporting by companies, impacts, opportunities and risks related to sustainability. CSRD, NFRD, SFDR and European Taxonomy: let’s understand the differences Over the past few years, the European Parliament has adopted several provisions to enable the transition to a sustainable economy and facilitate the achievement of the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal. The NFRD, which introduced the Non-Financial Reporting requirement, was followed by regulations such as the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and the European Taxonomy Regulation. The former, effective from March 2021, introduces sustainable finance requirements aimed at EU-based investment firms, which are required to report on the social and environmental impacts of their financial products. The Taxonomy, on the other hand, is a guide for classifying economic activities deemed environmentally sustainable. These provisions, combined with CSRD, serve the Union to establish a fair and transparent system for comparing and analyzing the socio-environmental information of European companies. Sustainability reporting: what changes for businesses? With the entry into force of the CSRD directive, companies are more accountable to the public about their social and environmental impact and the information they disseminate. Therefore, following the above, they will have to adapt to the new obligation, prepare to be audited and acquire independent certifications to prove the veracity of the published information. Companies will need to provide details about their chosen sustainability strategy, goals, corporate policies, action plans; provide information about material assessments of environmental and social impacts, governance details, and more. Businesses and sustainability reporting: how to prepare so as not to fall behind Sustainability reporting allows companies to communicate to the public, inside and outside the company, their virtuousness, their ability to add and be of value to the planet and society. It also brings several benefits, including: Access to credit lines and ad hoc incentives; Supporting and improving business planning; Enhancement of corporate image. Businesses and SMEs that want to prepare for this change can begin to familiarize themselves with the concept of corporate sustainability by taking advantage of channels dedicated to corporate sustainability, such as our Tecno Talks, by learning about the testimonies of those who have already successfully traveled the road to sustainability. Once the necessary information has been acquired , it is only right to know the ESG level of one’s company, through an assessment that complies with current regulations, in order to understand-with the help of expert minds-where the company’s actions to date have led and how to proceed in the future to improve the company’s ESG score. Having set the course, all that is left is to be guided by a qualified team toward the actions necessary to report on the company’s nonfinancial performance
Business sustainability and winning strategies: rail transport is discussed at the third Tecno Talks
We have reached the third round of our cycle dedicated to business sustainability, once again in the beautiful location of Naples’ Palazzo Ischitella in the company of distinguished guests, for the event entitled “Transportation: the opportunities of a sustainable future.” Rail transport for ecological transition and carbon neutrality goals On Monday, October 24, the third event in the Tecno Talks cycle, our format for promoting corporate sustainability, was held. Welcomed by President Giovanni Lombardi, participants in the room and online were able to attend the event led by Simone Filippetti and listen to the testimony of Luigi Corradi, CEO and General Manager of Trenitalia, combined with valuable suggestions from our Sustainability Advisor Paolo Taticchi. During the meeting, we were able to understand why rail transport is a viable sustainable alternative today, suitable for those who want to move in a way that respects the Planet and without neglecting their needs. The train is a sustainable means of transportation, confirmed by the Transport and environment 2020 Report presented by the EEA (European Environment Agency) a few years ago . In fact, the report showed that out of the total greenhouse gas emissions attributable to transport and amounting to 25 percent for the year 2018, only 0.4 percent was attributable to diesel trains. But there is still much to be done to contribute to the country’s green transition to meet the 2030 emission reduction targets. Emission reduction, carbon neutrality, and sustainable development are among the most closely watched goals of Europe for the coming decades; the time has come for businesses to prepare to accommodate the obligations related to these goals. ESG strategies: valuable testimonials from our guests From Simone Filippetti to the audience in the audience, from Paolo Taticchi to Luigi Corradi, participants also shared experiences, suggestions, scenarios, awareness and concerns in this latest Tecno Talks. It is now clear to everyone that companies need to take action for corporate sustainability. They need to start measuring their ESG performance to understand how much needs to be done and chart a new course, a new and rewarding business growth project because it is innovative and sustainable. We promote corporate sustainability with a winning format The simplicity of the Tecno Talks format continues to be highly successful because it is essential; the notions shared come straight to the participant because business success stories, absolutely attainable. As our Advisor Paolo Taticchi reminds us, the only winning strategy for the future of business is characterized by the ESG approach, for the environmenta, for society, for the company. Monitor our social channels to participate in the upcoming Tecno Talks in December and do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to learn more about our services.
Best Managed Companies: Tecno awarded for the fifth consecutive time
Once again this year we are among the Italian companies demonstrating excellence in organizational, strategic and performance capability. We are winners for the fifth consecutive time of the Best Managed Companies Award, the prize promoted by Deloitte Private, with the participation of ALTIS (Alta Scuola Impresa e Società dell’Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore), ELITE-Gruppo Euronext and Piccola Industria Confindustria. Our company is among the “Gold Companies” again this year; a category won by companies that have been named Best Managed Companies for at least four consecutive editions. The award ceremony was held in Milan at Palazzo Mezzanotte, headquarters of Borsa Italiana-Euronext, on October 4, 2022. Best Managed Companies: the goals of the initiative. The Best Managed Companies program was born in 1993 in Canada and immediately spread around the World. It arrived in Italy in 2018 thanks to Deloitte Private. The goal of this initiative is to succeed in creating a network of excellent companies by setting an example for other Italian companies; in doing so, it stimulates interaction with a view to continuous growth and improvement. Collaboration is, moreover, incentivized through BMC (Best Managed Companies) recognition as a distinctive element of corporate strength. Deloitte Best Managed Companies: success factors. The Deloitte Best Managed Companies award is given based on seven success factors: strategy, skills and innovation, corporate commitment and culture, governance and performance measurement, sustainability, supply chain and internationalization. The BMC recognizes companies that have also distinguished themselves through strategic partnerships and established relationships with partners abroad; a path we have always pursued and which has intensified in recent years. We have expanded our business more, creating a network of companies made up of specialized and diversified expertise, shared value creation, and talent enhancement. We have implemented new business strategies and concretized major initiatives, such as the Sustainability Hub, which is one of our flagship projects; the hub through which we concretize the transformation of SMEs into sustainable SMEs. From people to business: an award for all of us As a company actively engaged in building sustainable paths for businesses in Italy and abroad, we know how necessary it is to adopt a flexible, innovative business model without losing sight of values and roots. The context of this fifth edition has a strong impact on businesses; the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war have strained everyone a bit. The rising cost of raw materials, high energy prices, and high inflation rates are the elements that particularly mark this long difficult period. Adaptability has been one of the principles that has enabled us to continue to deploy our strength as people and as a company. In fact, this award is thanks to all the people who day after day build the future of our company. We are proud to be part of the 79 business excellence winners of the Best Managed Companies of 2022. We will continue to demonstrate our commitment, our ability to grow and innovate, and to promote virtuous behavior. Our goal is to continue to be an international benchmark for the implementation of economic, environmental and corporate social sustainability strategies and pathways; but yes, we are also aiming for Platinum Winner status (in two years!)
Sustainable tourism in Italy: vacationers prefer environmentally conscious accommodations
Sustainability: new consumption paradigms for the tourism sector as well Sustainable hotels and green facilities: why it is important to be found Green facilities and ESG pathways: how to improve your social and environmental impact Innovaturismo 2022 call for proposals: initiative to support the sustainability of tourism enterprises Environmental sustainability among fundable projects From application submission to grant disbursement Data from a recent research conducted by Booking.com support what the OECD announced and advised some time ago: “Tourism will recover gradually but must be thought of as more sustainable.” This concept guides Unioncamere Lombardy in defining the Innovaturismo 2022 call for proposals. Tourism businesses must necessarily take action and communicate their commitment to the well-being of the environment and society, but also not to be excluded from the market and travelers’ choices. Sustainability: new consumption paradigms for the tourism sector as well We are witnessing a major change, driven by new consumer demands and marked by increasing corporate action. The effects of climate change are too strong to go unheeded; we all feel guilty and aware that we can right the wrongs of the past by making new, sustainable choices for the well-being of the environment and society. This feeling of vindication also emerges from research conducted by booking.com in April 2022 (click here to see the original source). The world’s most popular accommodation search channel surveyed 300,000 people for a report on sustainable travel, returning a snapshot of a more environmentally conscious market. 81% of global travelers, 93% of Italians, believe sustainable travel is important; a quarter of respondents choose destinations closer to home to reduce their emissions; one in five prefer train to car for the same reason. Changing traveler philosophy, 74% of Italians (59% globally) would like to leave the places they visited better than they found them, and 25% say they would be willing to pay more to do activities while traveling that contribute to the well-being of the local community. If consumer needs follow the evolution of the world, it is up to entrepreneurs to do something to meet them. Sustainable hotels and green facilities: why it is important to be found Compared to even just a year ago, it is certainly easier today to find sustainable facilities with tourism offerings featuring goods and services that meet the needs of a more responsible public. Booking.com itself labels with the sustainable badge those facilities that have demonstrated certain environmental certifications. However, there are still those who argue that this is not enough; 35 percent of global travelers and 43 percent of Italians believe that the commitment to sustainability made by accommodations is crucial in guiding travelers’ choices. Businesses in tourism supply chains that choose to take new, sustainable paths, also aimed at reducing their own harmful emissions, are, and will be for a long time to come, rewarded by tourists and governments. Green facilities and ESG pathways: how to improve your social and environmental impact Among tourists, the number of those who prefer to stay in places that allow them to be in contact with nature is growing, we are witnessing the rediscovery of solutions such as agritourism and camping, and the spread of new and original options such as tree houses and glamping. In addition to contact with nature, what is quite clear among those surveyed by the booking.com staff is to evaluate the accommodation facility to be chosen also according to the actions it takes for environmental and social sustainability. What services does it provide? How does it act to reduce its direct and indirect emissions? Consumers are more aware than in the past, and to live up to their assessments, tourism enterprises must change their modus operandi, drawing from reliable partners, and – where provided – from government grants rendered for the benefit of tourism enterprises. Our role as promoters of a new business culture has enabled us to support the change already of many companies, of realities that have shown the need to change their strategy to achieve corporate sustainability. We have initiated customized audits and studies, analyzed what needs to be done to reduce its carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality, and drafted the sustainability documents required by stakeholders. Our intervention begins with consulting for corporate sustainability, follows with targeted interventions and ends with communication of the actions taken and the results achieved, because it is clear that if what we do remains between the doors of the company no one will ever appreciate it. Innovaturismo 2022 call for proposals: initiative to support the sustainability of tourism enterprises On June 20, 2022 by the determination of the chief operating officer no. 82/2022 the Innovaturismo 2022 call for proposals was approved by the Chambers of Commerce of Bergamo, Brescia, Como-Lecco, Cremona, Mantua, Milan-Lodi-Monza e Brianza and Varese. The total resources allocated for this facility are €370,000 distributed for all Lombard Chambers of Commerce. This is a measure aimed at supporting projects to revitalize the local tourism sector, strengthen tourism supply chains and its businesses, and improve the enjoyment and safety of the tourism experience and the environmental sustainability of the services offered. The facility concerns a non-repayable contribution recognized to MPMIs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and partnerships (union of at least three MPMIs or associations or consortia). The subsidy applies only to eligible expenses net of VAT in the amount of 60 percent up to a maximum limit of €60,000. For individual companies, the minimum investment is €10,000, while for partnerships it is €25,000. Environmental sustainability among fundable projects The objective of the call is to finance solutions that can contribute to the revitalization of Lombardy’s tourism industry, and in pursuit of this it admits among the projects eligible for funding under the Innovaturismo call solutions to increase the environmental sustainability of the services offered . They include: Electric vehicle charging solutions; Solutions for the development of new active&green services; Certifications and adoption of protocols for environmental sustainability; Solutions for water saving and wastewater reuse. For this purpose, expenses
Extended equal opportunity reporting requirement: what are the new rules for businesses
The amendment to the Equal Opportunity Code extended the obligation to transmit the report on the situation of male and female employees in the company. Art. 3 of Law no. 162 of November 5, 2021 amended the Code of Equal Opportunity for Men and Women in Employment (Legislative Decree No. 198 of April 11, 2006). With the amendments, the obligation to prepare the report on the situation of male and female staff was revised. Let’s see what it is and who are the companies obliged to submit the report. Staff situation report: what it is The report on the situation of male and female employees was introduced to make gender equality within companies more impactful. The report is a snapshot of the situation of both sexes within the corporate environment. The National Equality Committee aims to remove obstacles that prevent the achievement of gender equality. Ensuring equal opportunities in the world of work means that there are no gender-based barriers, differences in pay to the disadvantage of women’s quotas, and a low level of women’s participation in the labor market. Reporting parties: the changes to the Equal Opportunity Code Art. 46 of the Equal Opportunity Code required public and private companies with more than 100 employees to prepare a report on the situation of male and female employees at least every two years. The amendment to the Codeextended the obligation to public and private companies with more than 50 employees and required it to be prepared at a fixed biennial frequency. Companies employing up to 50 employees can make the report on a voluntary basis in the same way as obligated companies. The Interministerial Decree of March 29, 2022 defined how the report should be prepared. Compilation and transmission of the report: the modalities The report must be prepared exclusively in telematic mode; a form published on the institutional website of the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy must be filled out; and it must be sent to company trade union representatives, who will forward it to the Department of Equal Opportunity of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and other relevant bodies. The list of companies that have submitted the report and those that have not complied with this requirement is published in the dedicated section on the Ministry of Labor’s website. Biennial equal opportunity report 2022: what information it contains The 2022 Biennial Equal Opportunity Report contains information pertaining to the situation of male and female staff within the company. The identity of the worker should not be indicated; only the gender should be entered. Specifically, the following information should be entered: Number of female and male workers; Number of female workers who may be pregnant; Number of male and female workers hired during the year; Differences between the starting wages of workers of each sex; contractual framing; function performed by each employee employed, considering full-time and part-time contracts, amount of total remuneration paid, incidental salary components, allowances, bonuses and any other benefits or disbursements recognized. In addition, the company is required to include other elements in the report, such as: data and selection processes at the recruitment stage, on recruitment processes, procedures used to access professional qualification and management training; tools and measures made available to the worker/worker to promote work-life balance; Presence of company policies that ensure an inclusive, respectful work environment; Criteria adopted for career progressions. Biennial report transmission: deadlines and penalties Given the changes to the Equal Opportunity Code, the Interministerial Decree adopted a new reporting procedure, limiting it to the 2020-2021 biennium. The reporting deadline is set as September 30, 2022. For subsequent two-year terms, April 30 is confirmed as the reporting deadline. Public and private companies with more than 50 employees that are required to prepare the biennial report for the first time must provide data on the status of male and female employees with reference to Dec. 31, 2021. The Regional Directorate of Labor invites companies that have not met the deadline for submission of the report to submit it within 60 days; failure to submit following reminder will result in administrative sanctions or, in the most serious cases, suspension for one year of any contribution benefits the company may have enjoyed. The veracity of the report submitted by the company is verified by the National Labor Inspectorate. If the report contains false or incomplete information, a fine ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 euros is imposed. Gender equality report: not just an obligation Transmission of the Gender Equality Report is also a benefit for companies that are not obliged to prepare it; all companies that have submitted it have the possibility of being able to access public investments financed with NRP resources. The report enables companies to actively participate in the change our planet needs and bring out the employer’s contribution to the realization of an equal opportunity environment. In fact, the gender equality report fits within the context of the SDGs of the 2030 Agenda; specifically, it links to Goal 5 “Achieve gender equality and self-determination for all women and girls.” Staff situation report: techno supports your business The Gender Equality Report allows companies to have a clearer picture of the standards they have adopted in the area of gender equality and on what, if any, actions they need to implement in order to improve their business realities. To Art. 46 of the Equal Opportunity Code is addedArt. 46-bis “Certification of Gender Equality.” Another important element in favor of combating gender inequality in employment. A certification of the policies and measures adopted by employers in order to reduce the gap between men and women in relation to company growth opportunities, equal pay in the case of the same jobs, gender difference management policies and maternity protection; a voluntary certification that companies may choose to adopt, including for the benefit of participation in public calls for tenders. The deadline for the mandatory transmission of the staff status report is near. Rely on our team, we will support you in
Benefit company tax credit: renewed for the year 2022
MiSE extends to 2022 the tax break dedicated to companies that choose to form or transform into benefit companies. Decree Law 50/2022 with Art. 52-bis “Measures on benefit companies” extends the benefit company tax credit to 2022. Let’s see what it is and how to get it. Benefit company tax credit: what it is Companies that establish or transform into benefit companies access a 50 percent tax credit made available by the MiSE. The tax break is for enterprises that incurred the following expenses in 2022: Notary and registration fees in the Commercial Register; expenses related to professional assistance and advice incurred for the purpose of incorporation or transformation into a benefit corporation. Excluded from eligible expenses are those related to taxes and fees; an exception is made for value-added tax if the beneficiary has no possibility of recovering it. Company benefit tax breaks: tax credit extended The tax credit for benefit companies was introduced in order to strengthen their system throughout the country. The MiSE approved the benefit company tax credit for expenses incurred by companies in 2021 through Decree Law No. 34 of May 19, 2020. The facility provided for a maximum contribution of 10,000 euros that can be used exclusively in compensation by the beneficiary. The tax credit for companies that incur expenses to establish or transform into benefit companies in 2022 is found in Decree Law 50/2022. Tax credit benefit company implementation decree: what it is The implementing decree for the benefit company tax credit establishes the terms and procedures for submitting applications to access the grant made available by the MiSE. In order to qualify for the 2022 benefit corporation tax credit, the expenses of incorporation or transformation must be incurred by December 31, 2022. The beneficiary must submit an appropriate online application to the Ministry of Economic Development; for further definitions, it is necessary to wait for the publication of the directorial decree in favor of the 2022 benefit company tax credit. Becoming a benefit company: requirements and goals With the law of Dec. 28, 2015 no. 208, Italy legally recognized the benefit society as a legal form. The benefit corporation has a dual purpose: profit purpose and common benefit. All types of corporations under the Civil Code, excluding nonprofits, can become benefit corporations. The goal of benefit companies is to produce a positive impact on stakeholders, society and the environment through responsible, sustainable and transparent management. Obligations benefit companies: what are they The benefit corporation is obliged to state in its bylaws the common benefit it intends to pursue and the manner in which it undertakes to achieve it. It must also appoint an impact manager whose job is to ensure that the corporation pursues the stated common benefit purpose. An impact report, the purpose of which is to make the pursuit of the common benefit transparent, must be prepared annually; it must be attached to the company’s financial statements and filed with the Registrar of Companies. The information to be included in the impact report covers: environment, governance, workers, other stakeholders. ESG consulting: from tax benefits to the virtuosity of corporate sustainability The renewal of the benefit company tax credit once again demonstrates the institutions’ commitment to promoting a new business model, characterized by sustainable, ethical, environmentally and socially responsible approaches. Corporate sustainability, declined according to ESG criteria, allows the company to take advantage of countless benefits, not only fiscal, because it is demanded by stakeholders. With our help, you can build your own ESG journey aimed at establishing sustainable strategies and becoming a benefit society. Leave your details here to learn more.
