European Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Leading the Way in Sustainability Practices
In a grand celebration of sustainable businesses across Europe, entities from nine nations showcased their eco-friendly operations, cutting-edge technology for sustainability, and innovative products to compete for eye-catching prizes. Over 6,600 businesses put their best foot forward, unveiling their projects, game-changing ideas, and groundbreaking innovations. The winner from each participating country was then felicitated in the Belgian capital.
Austria's Sustainable Champion: R.U.S.Z.
Among stiff competition in Austria, Sepp Eisenriegler, the founder, owner, and CEO of R.U.S.Z., Repair and Service Center, emerged victorious. This social business, known as the most renowned independent repair shop in the EU, represented Austria on the international stage. Beyond its daily repair services, R.U.S.Z. serves as a hub for consumer protection and sustainability. It ranks as the largest household appliance re-use center in Austria, having been in operation since 1998. Each year, R.U.S.Z.'s dedicated team repairs approximately 12,000 electrical appliances, thereby saving around 80 tons of CO2 emissions. Through their training programs, they nurture job-seeking mechatronics into accomplished technicians, creating a significant social impact.
General Director of Generali Austria, Gregor Pilgram, applauded Sepp Eisenriegler and all participants at the SME EnterPRIZE: "Sustainability is a cornerstone of Generali's strategy, and I am thrilled to see so many small and medium-sized enterprises in Austria and across Europe that excel in ecological and social performance, while innovating. These businesses safeguard our environment, promote a greener world, and uplift people's lives. I wish them continued success."
The Glitzy Award Ceremony
Guests from the business and political sectors, including the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Assicurazioni Generali, Andrea Sironi, and Generali Group CEO Philippe Donnet, attended the award ceremony. They honored the "Sustainability Heroes" with their awards and reaffirmed their dedication to championing business models with strong green and social agendas, while fostering public discussions on sustainability.
A Lifetime Companion
The SME EnterPRIZE sustainability initiative was born in 2021 under the Generali Group's 190th anniversary celebration. Since 1831, Generali has been standing by its customers as a steadfast partner. "Sustainable businesses represent the future, and we are committed to supporting them throughout their journey," says Pilgram, adding, "Through the SME EnterPRIZE, we not only fuel sustainable business models but also showcase the responsible commitment of SMEs to a secure future."
Visit Generali at www.generali.at
Sources:
- www.generali.at
- www.undp.org
- www.seme-initiative.org
- Economic and social policy, finance, and business were central themes at the SME EnterPRIZE sustainability initiative, which was launched by Generali Group in 2021 to support and showcase sustainable businesses across Europe, with the aim of fostering their growth and promoting a greener and more socially responsible business environment.
- Sepp Eisenriegler, the founder and CEO of R.U.S.Z., Repair and Service Center, won the award for Austria's most sustainable business, showcasing the potential of financing and supporting businesses that prioritize both economic success and social responsibility, while fostering innovation for a greener and more sustainable future.
