Proud Of Our “Green Line”

lines for assessing and managing risk, as well as for making decisions on investments. Viewed over the long term, both certification and compliance with ESG standards can bring companies numerous benefits. Achieving better business and financial results, as well as an improved reputation, requires a systematic approach and a lasting commitment to these aspects. Mere certification or the satisfying of ESG standards is no guarantee of success, though it can form an important part of a strategy that contributes to achieving those goals.

Here Vladan Čokić, Bureau Veritas Country Chief Executive for Serbia and Montenegro, discusses the company’s “green line”, which encompasses everything from the verification of greenhouse gas emissions, certification in the area of sustainability, social responsibility, eco products and the energy efficiency of buildings and systems

Your company is today increasingly mentioned for its so-called green line of services and solutions. What is included under the ‘Green Line’? — Bureau Veritas is really a leader in the field of Testing, Inspection and Certification, which is confirmed by the fact that we provide services for more than 400.000 clients globaly. The “green line” initiative is oriented towards supporting sustainable development and environmental protection, as well as promoting energy efficiency, and under “green line” services and solutions we offer a wide array of services and certifica - tions that help organisations reduce their environmental impact, implement sustainable practices and satisfy regulatory requirements. The services categorised under the Bureau Veritas “green line” include, amongst others, the verification of greenhouse gas emissions, certification in the field of sustainability, social responsibility, eco products, the energy efficiency of buildings and systems etc.

Could a direct parallel be drawn between certification and adherence to ESG standards?

— A certain connection exists between certification and compliance with ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) standards, but it isn’t a direct parallel. Certification relates to the process of verifying and confirming that an organisation, product or service fulfils certain standards. For example, the certification of environmental management sys-

You also believe that a better world can be reached by creating better jobs, better surroundings and better business practices, and all in accordance with the UN’s sustainable development goals. How do your clients view that?

— Many companies are today aware that business success isn’t only measured in terms of financial results, but also in terms of a positive social and environmental impact. Companies that accept sustainability as part of their business model recognise benefits like tem could be considered part of a sustainability approach and ESG practices.

ESG standards focus on gauging the impact companies have on the environment, attitudes towards employees, social equity, the management of corporate risks and other issues linked to sustainability. ESG standards often serve as guide- competitive advantage, access to new markets, risk reduction etc. The trend is such that ever more companies are recognising that sustainability and business success are not antithetical, but are rather interconnected and in the long term ensure improved operational and financial results, as well as a better reputation.