The energy and ecological transition are key to protect long-term competitiveness of the economy of the European union. To ensure the transparency of companies’ activities in the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) field, the European Union require the collection and publication of ESG data for financial and non-financial companies.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a major player in the European Union’s economy. However, the strategic translation and operational implementation of these new requirements appear to be difficult to overcome by SMEs on their own, being a major obstacle to the sustainable transition.
Launching a European approach with a determined commitment from the natural partners of SMEs (accountants, banks, professional associations in particular) as well as European Union institutions seems essential. The conference will reflect upon the ways to best support and accelerate the ESG transition dynamic within SMEs.
Agenda
Welcome Address : Stéphanie Yon-Courtin, Member of European Parliament, Member of the Sustainable, Long-term Investments & Competitive European Industry Intergroup
The panel discussion, moderated by Jean-François Pons, Associate Researcher, Europe Jacques Delors :
- Sven Gentner, Head of Unit Corporate Reporting, Audit & Credit Rating Agencies, DG FISMA, European Commission
- Astrid Bartels, Head of Unit Access to Finance, DG GROW, European Commission
- Johan Barros, Head of Advocacy, Accountancy Europe
- Luc Hendrickx, Director Competitiveness of Enterprises, SME United
- Aude Contamin, Head of European Small and Mid-Caps, CDC Croissance
Closing Remarks : Pascal Durand, Member of European Parliament, Member of the Sustainable, Long-term Investments & Competitive European Industry Intergroup
Contact: Garance Galliaerde, secretariat@investmentindustryintergroup.eu
