Last week, the 12th Conference of Slovenian Exporters (slo. Konferenca Slovenskih izvoznikov) took place at Brdo pri Kranju, organized by Časnik Finance and the consulting firm Kearney. As a part of the program, the ESG Champion of Slovenia 2025 was announced, recognizing companies with the most advanced practices in sustainability, social responsibility, and governance.
Iskraemeco was selected as one of the top three finalists, alongside A1 Slovenia and Pivovarna Laško Union, which received the title this year.
Throughout the event, experts from various fields explored how ESG is shaping business strategies, influencing competitiveness, and raising new questions about corporate responsibility in today’s world. In the opening segment, Managing Director at Kearney Slovenia, discussed how the concept and relevance of sustainability are evolving in the modern context. This was followed by insights from the Global Head of ESG Advisory at UniCredit, who highlighted the most pressing needs and challenges in financing sustainable projects. These reflections laid the foundation for a deeper discussion on ESG as a strategic tool that goes beyond reporting and compliance.
A key part of the program was the roundtable discussion titled “How relevant is ESG for business today?”, where our Sustainability Specialist, Dalija Delić, joined representatives from Atlantic Droga Kolinska, Lumar IG, Pivovarna Laško Union, and A1 Slovenia. Dalija emphasized how a company’s sustainability orientation contributes to long-term stability, competitiveness in B2B markets, and energy self-sufficiency. She also addressed ESG’s growing role in employer branding, especially among younger generations, and the internal challenges companies face in data collection and raising awareness.
»To be recognized as one of the top three companies in Slovenia for our ESG approach is truly an honor. It shows that Iskraemeco sees ESG as a valuable tool and business mindset, one that helps us act responsibly while also adapting to ever-changing market demands and succeeding in the long term. «
~Dalija Delić, Sustainability specialist at Iskraemeco
As one of the finalists in the ESG Champion of Slovenia initiative, we recognize the depth and complexity of sustainable transformation. In this context, we would like to highlight several key aspects that are shaping ESG evolution in companies:
- Legislation, particularly the CSRD directive, has marked a turning point for many organizations, triggering systemic changes and internal optimization projects. While regulation provides necessary momentum, it is essential that companies respond strategically and pragmatically. At Iskraemeco, we developed CSRD reporting expertise internally, which enabled us to take long-term, integrated approach to ESG reporting.
- The link between sustainability, technology, and innovation is undeniable. Without technological advancement, the transition to green energy would not be possible. At the same time, this raises environmental and ethical questions related to resource use. Innovations in product design and the adoption of new materials are becoming central to developing sustainable solutions that genuinely reduce the carbon footprint for end users.
- Climate change is increasingly impacting business risk. Supply chain disruptions, product adaptation to new environmental conditions, and growing demands from financial institutions regarding environmental risk management are becoming integral to strategic planning.
- Looking ahead, ESG requirements are expected to focus even more on transparency, traceability of materials and components, and ecodesign principles. The EU is not only addressing environmental challenges but also aiming to maintain competitiveness in a global landscape.
Being named among the top three ESG-oriented companies is a confirmation that we are on the right path, and a motivation to continue developing innovative solutions that contribute to a greener, more inclusive, and responsible future.
To learn more about our sustainability initiatives, visit our website or explore our Sustainability report 2024, where we present concrete actions, indicators, and strategies guiding our journey toward a sustainable future.
Foto: Aleš Beno, Časnik Finance
