ESG CEO SUMMIT 2nd edition - Sustainable future between compliance and competitiveness

In recent months, the debate on sustainability has undergone a profound transformation, marked by a growing greenlash that questions its urgency and effectiveness. In an increasingly unstable global context—commercially, energetically, and geopolitically—a new world order is emerging, characterized by deep divergences in approaches to the transition.

On one hand, skepticism fueled by conservative positions promotes a narrative that views sustainability as an obstacle to growth. On the other hand, Europe’s choice to entrust regulation and finance with leading the change appears to have been met with a “cold shower” affecting all stakeholders involved. A pragmatic “reset” of environmental strategies is now more urgent than ever to resolve this Climate Paradox and counteract the regressive effect that policies promoted over the last five years have had on public consensus.

Within this uncertain landscape, the path towards climate neutrality—while remaining a central objective—is exposed to risks of delays and compromises. To reinvigorate the economy and sustainable competitiveness, the EU has adopted a Competitiveness Compass identifying innovation, decarbonization, and autonomy as the guiding principles for the European Commission’s mandate over the next five years. A low-carbon economy can indeed reduce environmental impact while simultaneously generating employment, innovation, and industrial development. Simplification of reporting obligations, especially for SMEs, and increased public investment will be the levers through which Europe intends to capture this potential.

Reducing bureaucratic pressure allows businesses greater freedom to determine if and how to integrate sustainability into their operations, directing resources towards “clean” investments rather than merely complying with regulatory requirements.

The aim of this meeting is to explore, in light of the new geopolitical and economic scenario, the conditions for a just transition that strengthens—rather than hinders—the competitiveness of European companies in the global context.

Program

15.30 Registration and Welcome Coffee

16.00 Opening Remarks
Corrado Arturo Peraboni, CEO Italian Exhibition Group

16.05 Contextual Overview
Carlo Cici, Partner and Head of Sustainability, TEHA The European House - Ambrosetti

16.20 Sustainability and ESG: Rethink or relaunch? The response of individuals and companies to today’s challenges
Andrea Alemanno, Head of Public Affairs and Corporate Reputation Service Lines, Ipsos

16.35 Roundtable Discussion

Davide Abate, Chief Industrial Officer Ferrari
Adriano Alfani, CEO di Versalis (Eni) & Catia Bastioli, CEO Novamont  
Gianluca Bufo, CEO Iren Group
Marco Codognola, CEO Itelyum
Alessandro Colombo, CEO di UNIDRO & SODAI
Orazio Iacono, CEO Hera Group 
Renato Mazzoncini, CEO A2A Group

18.00 Closing Remarks