Roundtable

ESG strategies as a driver of innovation and competitiveness

1:40 - 2:40PM | 23 October 2025
2:50 - 3:50PM | 23 October 2025

Context

The European economy is facing growing challenges. Its share of global GDP is declining, especially when compared to the dynamic growth of the US and China. In recent years, GDP growth in the EU has been significantly lower than in these economies. In addition, Europe is struggling with a technology and innovation gap, resulting in reduced competitiveness in key sectors such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing.

Europe can no longer rely on its existing growth drivers and must adopt a new strategy. A key element of this vision is the Clean Industrial Deal, which aims to create competitive industries and high-quality jobs while supporting environmental goals. In this vision, Europe's competitiveness is based on advanced technologies, including the development of renewable energy sources, energy efficiency and innovation.

Never before have innovation and economic efficiency been such important factors influencing the future of the European economy. This is a huge responsibility, and it is our duty to meet it. This responsibility requires us to use different methods and solutions, whether in terms of financing, building, implementing or scaling innovation, than those we have used so far. However, the responsibility we bear requires us, above all, to act quickly.

Energy is needed for the dynamic development of innovation, including the construction and maintenance of AI infrastructure and data centres. It is in this area that we, as Europe, face a huge challenge. The decarbonisation process, which aims to reduce our carbon footprint and ultimately achieve climate neutrality, is a key pillar of the transformation of the European economy and, as a result, its competitiveness. Achieving these goals is the best way to maintain Europe's competitiveness, its economic and social convergence, and, as a result, the geopolitical security of the European community.

Organizer

This roundtable is organized by RBF Poland

SPEAKERS

• Robert Adamczyk, Senior Environmental Advisor and Operations Head Energy Sector Team within the EBRD’s Environment and Sustainability Department (ESD)

• Dr Daniel Kiewra, Lead Expert on Climate and Energy of the Responsible Business Forum - Moderator

Who should attend

• Members of management boards

• Members of supervisory boards

• Sustainability and innovation directors

• Digitalisation directors