On 14 September, SKOLKOVO Sustainable Business Centre in cooperation with the Embassies of the Member States of the European Union and the Delegation of the European Union to the Russian Federation held a Workshop "Leading Sustainable Business in Russia: Cooperation for Impact" within the Climate Diplomacy Week.
Climate Diplomacy Week is a global initiative of the EU aimed at engaging new partners (general public, business community, civil society and NGOs) in a global community dedicated to tackle climate challenges, promote sustainability agenda and maintain high political momentum for climate action after 2015 Paris Climate Agreement.
The event "Leading Sustainable Business in Russia: Cooperation for Impact" took place in the Moscow School of Management SKOLKOVO where Russian and European business representatives exchanged individual experiences and best practices for better cooperation between various stakeholders that can create a conductive environment leading to impactful sustainable business, both for large industries, and for Small and Medium Enterprises.
The opening remarks were given by the Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation and Special Presidential Representative on Climate Issues, Mr. Alexander Bedritsky, the EU Ambassador to Russia, Mr. Vygaudas Usackas, Deputy Head of Mission of the French Embassy and Representative of COP 21 Presidency, Frederic Mondoloni and the President of the Moscow School of Management Skolkovo, Mr. Andrey Sharonov. This workshop gathered more than 100 professionals including representatives from Siemens, Unilever, Enel, DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals, UC RUSAL, UPM and other players leading sustainability agenda to discuss best practices of collaboration and current barriers as well as to identify potential spheres and tools for joint sustainable business action in Russia. The event contributed to Sustainable Business Roadmap, a tool that offers businesses, authorities and decision-makers practical recommendations on issues related to sustainability and business environment development.