Cynthia Guzmán, eGreen Sustainability Leader

Spanish version here

What is your personal vision of sustainability and how do you define it in the context of your organization or industry? 

My personal vision of sustainability is based on the idea that organizations have a responsibility to act in a way that protects and restores the entire cycle in which they operate. Focusing on the synergy between the protection of the natural environment and long-term human well-being is the ideal balance. This also considers economic success, as when companies incorporate sustainable practices, they not only reduce their environmental and social impact but can also improve their operational efficiency, reduce costs, and create new market opportunities. In the context of eGreen, sustainability means balancing business goals with environmental and social responsibility. This translates into making decisions that reduce our environmental impact, promote fair and ethical practices, and develop a technology-based ecosystem to address, measure, and improve current environmental challenges.

What are the main challenges that eGreen faces on its path to sustainability? 

eGreen faces several challenges on its path to sustainability. One of the key challenges is the need to raise awareness and educate organizations and society about the importance of managing the carbon footprint as a basis for guiding towards carbon credits and green investments. Furthermore, integrating with existing systems of organizations and adopting blockchain technology in the environmental field will require time and resources. Also, achieving the ambitious goal of reducing 1 gigaton of CO2 by 2033 poses measurable and quantitative challenges that will require the collaboration of multiple partners and teamwork across different areas to reach the target.

What initiatives or projects have you implemented or led to promote sustainability? 

I have educated myself on environmental contingency to understand areas such as the circular economy, energy management, carbon markets, energy valorization, and legal requirements in waste management. I have also participated in workshops related to responsible business conduct and the interpretation of management standards. Throughout my professional career, I have been involved in initiatives and projects focused on promoting sustainability. This includes, providing support to present information on global sustainability indexes, advising on adherence to global principles, serving as an advisor in events, and collaborating on projects related to waste management and the promotion of sustainable energy in different regions. Additionally, I have worked in roles evaluating business practices based on sustainable criteria with the aim of promoting responsible business practices. Lastly, I created a venture focused on the production of puzzles and 3D prints, made with sustainable materials and environmentally-friendly processes, promoting education and cognitive development in children.

What emerging trends in sustainability do you believe will be crucial in the coming years? 

In the future, emerging trends in sustainability will include a greater adoption of innovative and sophisticated technologies to increase transparency and traceability in every environmental process. There will also be a greater emphasis on the quality and verification of carbon credits by establishing more integrative and supported standards to improve transparency and reliability in the global carbon market. These initiatives will not only strengthen the market's integrity but also contribute to the creation of solid economic opportunities, as investors and companies can trust the authenticity of these trends. The democratization of sustainable investments and the creation of tradable investment assets will also be crucial aspects to expand positive impact, which in turn can drive more equitable and sustainable economic growth in the global market.

What role does innovation and technology play in the search for sustainable solutions in your industry?

Innovation and technology, particularly blockchain and data intelligence, are fundamental in the industry. These advances allow us to develop more efficient systems and tools for measuring carbon footprint, resource management, and the creation of investment assets related to sustainability. Technology also provides us with the ability to automate processes, enhance transparency and traceability in our operations, and promote global collaboration in mitigating climate change.

What is your advice for companies looking to embark on their sustainability journey? 

Starting the journey towards sustainability is a significant strategic decision that can have a significant impact on a company's future and the planet. Commitment from top management is essential; sustainability should be integrated into the company's culture and strategy from the top down. Leaders should set clear goals and communicate the importance of sustainability to all levels of the organization.  

Begin by assessing the current environmental and social footprint by measuring carbon emissions, natural resource usage, waste management, and other relevant impacts. This assessment will serve as a baseline for future improvements. Define clear and measurable objectives that align with the sustainability vision; they should be specific, achievable, and have defined timelines.  

In the environmental aspect, it is crucial to consider how to reduce natural resource consumption, minimize carbon emissions, and manage waste more effectively. Explore innovative technological solutions that can help improve energy efficiency, water management, and other key environmental aspects.  

Sustainability is not only about internal operations; evaluate and collaborate with suppliers to promote sustainable practices throughout the supply chain. This may include selecting suppliers who share sustainability values. Explore innovative technological solutions that can help improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact, such as automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.  

Invest in employee training and awareness because sustainability is a collective effort, and everyone in the organization should understand their role in achieving sustainability goals. Implement tracking and measurement systems to assess progress toward sustainability goals and adjust strategies as necessary to improve performance.  

Be transparent about sustainability efforts and communicate achievements and challenges clearly and honestly to employees, customers, and stakeholders. Transparency builds trust and demonstrates genuine commitment. Consider collaborating with external organizations, such as NGOs, academic institutions, or industry associations, to gain additional expertise and resources in sustainability.  

From an economic perspective, sustainability can lead to greater operational efficiency, reducing long-term costs. The initial investment in sustainable practices and technologies can generate significant savings in resources and energy, improving profitability. Furthermore, by attracting investors and customers committed to sustainability, the company can enhance its competitiveness and position in the market, contributing to economic growth at both the corporate and broader economic levels.  

Finally, remember that each company or organization is unique, so the sustainability approach should be tailored to the industry, size, and specific goals. Sustainability not only benefits the environment but can also generate operational efficiencies, improve the company's reputation, and attract customers and talent committed to sustainability. Persistence and adaptability are key in this ongoing and evolving journey toward sustainability.

How do you address the ethical and social challenges related to sustainability in your leadership? 

eGreen stands out for placing integrity at the core of its ecosystem. The company strives to ensure that all its actions are transparent and supported, which is essential for building trust among our customers and stakeholders. By facilitating access to emissions reduction solutions through the standardization of environmental processes with technology, eGreen generates a beneficial impact on both communities and the environment. Additionally, the company considers corporate social responsibility and ethics as fundamental pillars in its approach to sustainability, ensuring that operations benefit communities and human well-being.