Innovation

In the contemporary business landscape, sustainability is an unavoidable necessity. Companies face unprecedented environmental and social challenges, and technology emerges as the key to driving sustainable practices across industries. The integration of technological solutions allows organizations to embed sustainability into their daily operations, creating value not only for shareholders but also for society and the planet. Climate and regulatory pressures compel companies to rethink their strategies, and often, only technological innovation can provide the solutions needed to meet new goals. Advanced systems for managing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) data have been developed to accelerate the journey toward sustainability, with artificial intelligence providing actionable insights across all ESG dimensions. New forms of biotechnology are enabling the creation of innovative products and the reuse of waste. For instance, the company DSM-Firmenich employs approaches such as synthetic biology and precision fermentation, combined with digital technologies, to develop sustainable bio-solutions like algae-based omega-3 oil (Veramaris) and next-generation stevia sweetener (EverSweet). Similarly, Ericsson, in collaboration with Kiona, has demonstrated how 5G technology, combined with artificial intelligence, can optimize heating systems in buildings, leading to immediate energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. This technological integration offers a quick and efficient way to cut energy consumption without the need for extensive structural renovations. Digital integration and biotechnological innovation enable companies not only to meet environmental standards but also to establish new benchmarks for the future. Strategic collaboration is crucial to building a resilient and adaptable culture of sustainability. In Leiria, we are not immune to this reality. Many local companies have adopted advanced technologies and collaborated strategically to promote sustainability. InBfusion, for example, has developed a lifetime toothbrush, featuring a durable body and biodegradable, replaceable heads, aiming to reduce waste associated with disposable toothbrushes. TerraFarmers focuses on ecological restoration, using drone technologies for reforestation and ecosystem regeneration, while CO2Offset offers solutions for carbon offsetting, helping companies neutralize their ecological footprint. Companies like Plan4Sustain assist in rethinking business models, making them more sustainable. Only through deep collaboration, innovation, and business redesign can we pave the way toward a more sustainable future. Excerpt written by Vítor Ferreira. Published in Jornal de Leiria *Cover Photo by Riccardo Annandale on Unsplash