The elegant halls of the InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest once again hosted a landmark event dedicated to visionary leadership, innovation, and responsibility — the Sustainability in Business Awards Gala 2025, organized by Sustainability Today and The Diplomat-Bucharest.
Dedicated to recognizing performance and proven commitment in sustainable development across Romania’s key business sectors, the Gala brought together leading companies, projects, and executives whose work is reshaping the country’s economic landscape through responsible and forward-thinking practices.
Now in its sixth year, the Sustainability in Business Forum & Awards Gala has become one of the most respected platforms for dialogue and recognition in the field of sustainability. The event not only shows outstanding initiatives and sustainability front-runners but also highlights the vital importance of acting responsibly — regardless of industry or region.
More than an awards ceremony, the Gala celebrates ideas, technologies, and leadership models that embody the transition toward a greener and more inclusive economy. It explores cutting-edge solutions and amplifies the most relevant voices addressing climate change, resource conservation, and ethical business practices.
Serving as both a catalyst for change and a forum for collaboration, the event cultivates a sense of shared purpose and collective responsibility — inspiring participants to play an active role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient global future.
These things would not have been possible without the support of our great partners, to whom we would like to say a big thank you:
Strategic Partner: Circular Economy Coalition (CERC)
Gold Partners: RetuRO, Vastint, DS Smith, CHEP, Schneider Electric, Aqua Carpatica, INFORM, Eldrive, Auchan, Coca-Cola HBC Romania, Green Group, Green Point, EVO Properties, Verbund, Philip Morris Romania, E.ON Romania, Ursus Breweries, BAT Romania
Partners: Tinmar Energy, TOMRA, PepsiCo, Stratos, Romgaz, Sustainability Lens, Electrica Furnizare, VPK
Supporting Partners: AHK, BRCC, Concordia, Ecoteca, HENRO, Cluj IT, Lovering & Partners
Media Partners: Outsourcing Today, Automotive Today, Financial Intelligence, Romania Durabila, Bursa, Economistul, Club Economic
Romania’s sustainability champions were decided by the esteemed jury committee, comprised of top professionals from various business sectors:
Raul Pop, Secretary of State, Ministry of Environment, Water and Forests
Mihaela Frasineanu, State Counselor, Environment protection, Prime Minister’s Chancellery
Ramona Jurubita, Country Managing Partner, KPMG Romania & Moldova, FIC Board Member
Mihaela Croitoru, Sustainability, Climate & ESG Advisor, CEO, Sustainability Lens
Alex Laibar, Executive Director at Circular Economy Coalition (CERC)
Ilinca Pandele, Member of the Executive Board, AHK Romania
Monica Movileanu, Partner, ESG Leader, PwC Romania
Luminita Rosca, Managing Director, Stratos Management
Colin Lovering, Founder, Lovering & Partners Business Performance Consultants
A special thank you to our jury members for supporting this great event organized by Sustainability Today and The Diplomat-Bucharest!
And now it’s time to reveal the list of winners at the Sustainability Awards Gala 2025:
Awards presented by The Diplomat
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND CIRCULAR INNOVATION AWARD
We begin this evening’s Gala with a company that has taken on an ambitious mission: to transform the way we use the planet’s resources and to build a world without waste. Through its innovative technologies, this company recovers more than 48 billion packaging units every year. This collection enables high-quality materials to be available for recycling, reducing the beverage industry’s dependence on virgin raw materials and significantly lowering associated emissions.
The company’s 2030 plans are equally impressive: collecting 500 billion packages and using 100% renewable energy. It is a true leader of the “Resource Revolution”, proving that circular innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
We present this award to TOMRA Collection Romania.
RESPONSIBLE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY EXCELLENCE
Philip Morris Romania receives this award in recognition of its exemplary commitment to promoting sustainable industrial practices and resource efficiency. The company has achieved outstanding results: a recycling rate of over 77% and the initiation of the certification process to become a Zero Waste company. It has also significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions, as well as water and energy consumption, reinforcing its status as a responsible company.
Philip Morris Romania has implemented advanced wastewater treatment and water reuse systems, integrating sustainability principles throughout every stage of production.
Through these initiatives, Philip Morris Romania sets a benchmark for responsible industrial operations, demonstrating that economic performance can go hand in hand with environmental protection.
GLOBAL ESG EXCELLENCE AWARD IN THE OIL & GAS SECTOR
Romgaz ranks among the top 21% of companies in the global oil and gas industry, recognized for its outstanding ESG performance. The company efficiently manages environmental, social, and governance risks, invests in innovative technologies, and reduces carbon and methane emissions in line with the EU Green Deal objectives.
Through this achievement, Romgaz proves that corporate responsibility and sustainability can align perfectly with operational excellence in the energy sector.
INDUSTRIAL DECARBONIZATION AND RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP
The winner of this category is a company that leads Romania’s steel industry and has chosen the path of decarbonization and sustainable growth. As part of a global group, it reached its 2030 CO₂ reduction target ahead of schedule—achieving a 28% decrease in Zalău and full compliance in Călărași.
These results were made possible through technological upgrades, energy efficiency measures, and circular economy initiatives such as extensive use of recycled scrap metal and integration of renewable energy sources.
But its performance goes even further: the company continuously invests in people and communities, enhances workplace safety and health, supports employee development, and backs educational, STEM, and social responsibility projects.
Through ethical governance, circular innovation, and social responsibility integrated into its strategy, this company demonstrates that industrial excellence can go hand in hand with a net-zero and sustainable future.
The award in this category goes to Tenaris Silcotub.
Special categories – Online votes
BRAND OF THE YEAR IN SUSTAINABILITY
This award goes to a well-known brand that has strengthened its position as an emblem of authentic commitment to the environment and community, while maintaining a strong presence in Romania’s FMCG market.
Through collaborations with foundations and associations focused on sustainability and environmental protection, the brand has shown true leadership by embedding sustainability in its brand strategy and in the hearts of its consumers.
The Brand of the Year in Sustainability is URSUS.
NET-ZERO CARBON STRATEGY OF THE YEAR
This award goes to a symbol of Romanian industry, with over 60 years of history and innovation.
In an energy-intensive sector, the company has set clear goals: net-zero by 2050 and a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030, supported by concrete plans, investments, and transparent reporting. By 2030, it also aims to achieve +35% energy efficiency and use at least 35% renewable energy.
The Aluminium Stewardship Initiative certification, confirmed by audit in 2024, validates responsible production across the entire value chain.
Its product speaks for itself: an energy label declaring an average footprint of ~4.54 t CO₂ equivalent per ton of aluminum (2023), placing the company among Europe’s best performers.
For its vision, courage, and consistency in execution, we proudly present the Net-Zero Carbon Strategy of the Year Award to ALRO Group.
SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING & COMMUNICATIONS
This category honors a company that achieved remarkable progress in 2024: 37% renewable energy use, reduced CO₂ emissions, and 98% renewable raw materials. Its paper production relies entirely on recycled fibers and certified inputs. Through effective resource management, it has also reduced water consumption by 15%, nearing its target of 6 m³ per ton of paper produced.
Built on a sustainability-driven strategy, this company sets an example in responsible production.
We present this award to VPK Packaging.
Awards presented by the Jury
SUSTAINABILITY AMBASSADOR
With over a decade of experience at the intersection of sustainability, education, and innovation, the recipient of this award has trained generations of professionals and built projects that placed Romania on the global map of green innovation.
As co-founder and president of EFdeN, he has led award-winning initiatives in renewable energy, smart cities, and sustainable buildings, influencing public policy and training over 1,000 young professionals.
As a professor, mentor, and international speaker, he inspires leaders and organizations to embed sustainability into their strategies and turn visionary ideas into real impact.
We present this award to Mr. Claudiu Butacu, Founder of EFdeN.
PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR IN SUSTAINABILITY | IN MEMORIAM
When asked to nominate a personality truly deserving of this award, my thoughts immediately went to someone I met early in my sustainability career—back when sustainability and circular economy were barely known concepts.
That person is Gabriel Sescu, a pioneer driven by conviction and a genuine desire to do good.
Founder of the first Food Bank in Romania and former president of the Federation of Food Banks (FBAR), he is honored tonight for his remarkable contribution to the fight against food waste.
I invite his son, Andrei Sescu, to join us on stage and say a few words about his father’s work.
Over more than a decade, through vision, determination, and tireless involvement, he built a national network of 9 Regional Food Banks, aligned with European FEBA standards. Between 2017 and 2024, this network saved 29,021.95 tons of food, equivalent to 58 million meals, creating a lasting and transformative impact on Romanian communities.
EDUCATIONAL PROJECT IN SUSTAINABILITY
The distinction for Educational Project of the Year is awarded to a program that succeeded in uniting an entire school community — teachers, students, and parents — around essential values: environmental responsibility, recycling, and energy efficiency.
Through this initiative, sustainability has been nurtured from an early age, transforming schools into true centers of change and educational communities into active contributors to a cleaner future.
Through simple yet consistent actions embraced by every participant, the program demonstrated that small steps, when multiplied, can create a powerful impact in local communities. The benefits also return to those who initiated change, reinforcing the belief that positive and lasting transformations are born from everyone’s involvement.
We present this award to Carrefour Romania & InspirAction Association for the educational project “Small Practices for Big Gestures” (Practici Mici pentru Gesturi Mari).
SOCIAL VALUE INITIATIVE IN SUSTAINABILITY
The Social Value Initiative in Sustainability Award goes to a partnership that truly changes lives.
Beyond inspiring words, this is about real young people from vulnerable backgrounds — from cities and villages across the country. In 2024 alone, 16 trainers reached 13 counties and 60 high schools, directly impacting 5,554 young beneficiaries. Forty participants experienced hands-on training — from exploratory visits to barista and bartender courses — earning certifications that open doors to employment opportunities.
The program’s impact is internationally recognized: since 2017, #YOUthEmpowered has supported over 41,000 young people in Romania to discover their career paths. In 2024, “Barmasters Empowered” expanded that mission, connecting youth with the HoReCa industry — where the first job often becomes the first step toward independence.
For care, consistency, and measurable results, we proudly present the Social Value Initiative in Sustainability Award to Coca-Cola HBC Romania & The Social Incubator for the program “La TINEri Este Puterea” (The Power Is in YOUth).
CIRCULAR ECONOMY INNOVATION OF THE YEAR
This award goes to the world’s first industrial system combining dual-energy X-ray scanning, artificial intelligence, and robotics for detecting batteries in electronic waste.
This technological solution integrates autonomous sorting modules, AI-based recognition, and robotic handling systems specifically designed for electrical and electronic waste.
The technology sets new global standards for safety and efficiency in recycling, becoming a benchmark for Europe and beyond. Installed as a prototype in 2024 and launched industrially in 2025, it has proven both performance and reliability under real operating conditions.
We present this award to GreenWEEE – A GreenGroup Company for the GRINNER technology.
SMART SUSTAINABLE CONCEPT
This category honors a program that stands out through measurable CO₂ reduction and a tangible positive impact on environmental sustainability, demonstrating true leadership in the circular economy.
The program implemented an automated system based on reverse vending machines and barcode scanners that sort packaging without manual intervention, establishing a new standard for technological sustainability in retail.
The program’s impact has been transformative: strengthening the company’s reputation as a technological leader in sustainable retail, fostering innovation in logistics and packaging, and becoming a catalyst for collaboration and organization-wide integration of sustainability.
We present this award to Freshful by eMAG for the program “Verde cu Freshful” (Green with Freshful).
WASTE AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PROJECT OF THE YEAR
This award is granted to a company for launching a pilot project on biodegradable organic waste management.
Implemented in 10 stores in Bucharest and Ploiești, the project focused on selective collection of food waste and its conversion into biogas — a source of green energy.
Between October and December 2024, the company collected and redirected 228 tons of waste, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and generating enough energy to power dozens of households for several months.
This initiative demonstrates the company’s strong commitment to the circular economy, food waste reduction, and the transition to sustainable energy sources.
We present this award to Auchan Retail Romania for the project “Collection of Biodegradable Waste and Its Use as Raw Material for Biogas Production.”
TECHNOLOGY IMPACT
This award is granted to a technological solution whose implementation marked the first large-scale industrial integration of dual-energy X-ray scanning assisted by artificial intelligence in electronic waste treatment, delivering major improvements in safety, resource recovery, and stakeholder confidence.
By hosting the first prototype of this technology, the company has established itself as a European pioneer in technology-driven circular solutions, safeguarding operations across three plants with a total annual capacity of 140,000 tons and more than 400 employees, while reinforcing its reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking partner.
We present this award to GreenWEEE – A GreenGroup Company for the GRINNER technology.
Awards presented by The Diplomat
DRIVING SUSTAINABLE IMPACT THROUGH RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP
This award recognizes authentic performance in sustainability and corporate responsibility. Through ambitious goals and concrete actions, this company demonstrates how care for resources and communities can generate real impact: 50% of its energy comes from renewable sources, 80% of waste is recycled, water consumption has decreased by 22%, and its Ploiești factory is certified for sustainable water management.
Through dedicated employee campaigns, the company has planted 23,000 trees and collected over 15 tons of waste. These achievements confirm a strong vision and exemplary perseverance in building a cleaner, more sustainable future.
We proudly present this award to BAT Romania.
ENERGY SECTOR SUSTAINABILITY LEADERSHIP
This award goes to a leader with nearly two decades of experience within the same energy company. Her management style is defined by empathy, accountability, and impactful actions.
Under her leadership, the company has become one of Romania’s most trusted energy providers, serving 3.5 million customers with innovative, efficient, and responsible solutions.
Beyond business performance, she actively promotes the role of energy companies in driving positive change for the environment and society, developing collaborative initiatives with real and lasting impact.
We present this award to Ms. Claudia Griech, CEO of E.ON Energie Romania.
EXCELLENCE IN INSPIRING FUTURE GENERATIONS AWARD
This award is presented for the educational and social engagement project “The Taste of the Future”, which brought together — in its second edition in 2024 — trusted partners of the AGRICOLA – Neam de Gospodari Association, including group companies, non-profit organizations, local restaurants, and teachers from Anghel Saligny High School.
Through this social responsibility project, AGRICOLA inspires the next generation, fosters a passion for cooking, and promotes the art of healthy and tasty eating.
By investing in people, creativity, and “The Taste of the Future,” the company builds a better tomorrow for the community and for the young talents who bring flavor to the world of the future.
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN SUSTAINABILITY & CLIMATE ACTION
This award goes to a global leader in the circular economy, distinguished by the largest system of reusable pallets and containers, reducing waste and carbon emissions.
With over 70 years of experience and more than half a billion assets in circulation, the company aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2040, a decade ahead of global standards.
By integrating sustainability into every strategic decision and collaborating closely with its partners, the company proves that innovation, responsibility, and efficiency can truly transform business.
We present this award to CHEP Romania.
INNOVATION AND DIVERSIFICATION IN GREEN ENERGY
This award recognizes an energy market player that has undergone a radical transformation over the past decade. From a traditional energy producer, the company has evolved into an integrated, competitive, and innovative player investing heavily in diversification, digitalization, and modernization.
Investments exceeding 3 billion lei in storage, hybridization, and new production capacity demonstrate the company’s commitment to a sustainable future.
From large-scale photovoltaic and storage projects to modernization of existing infrastructure, this company continues to strengthen its top reputation in Romania’s green energy transition.
We present this award to Hidroelectrica.
SUSTAINABILITY FRONTRUNNER IN THE INDUSTRY
This award recognizes a company that, in 2025, listed the largest corporate and non-financial green bond issuance on the Bucharest Stock Exchange — its first since going public in 2024 — with a total value of €500 million.
The funds raised will finance or refinance eligible green projects, including renewable energy initiatives, in line with the company’s Green Financing Framework and the prospectus approved by the Financial Supervisory Authority.
We proudly present this award to Electrica.
SUSTAINABILITY PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR
This award celebrates a strategic partnership between a manufacturer and a renewable energy solutions provider, resulting in the first company in Romania to operate entirely on renewable electricity.
Through a 12-year partnership with the energy company, the manufacturer now powers all its factories with energy from a 51.4 MWp photovoltaic park, cutting over 16,000 tons of CO₂ annually.
This milestone supports the Legacy 2030 goals: achieving carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 by 2030 and reducing Scope 3 emissions by 30%.
We present this award to the partnership between Ursus Breweries & Enery Power Holding.
BEST SUSTAINABLE FINANCE SOLUTIONS PROVIDER
The Excellence in Finance and Sustainability Award goes to a leader in mobility and operational leasing in Romania.
Through steady growth, transparency, and a strong sustainability vision, the company has gained investor confidence and successfully accessed capital markets to finance business expansion and green initiatives.
It currently has two bond issuances listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange, totaling €78 million. The first issuance in 2021 marked a defining milestone, demonstrating both investor responsibility and environmental commitment.
Investor trust reflects recognition of the company’s performance and dedication to sustainability and long-term growth.
We present this award to Autonom Services S.A.
SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN OF THE YEAR
This award honors a company that has shown that good governance evolves with the world, transforming every stage of its value chain into a driver of efficiency, decarbonization, and resilience.
Every solar panel installed, every ton of plastic reduced, and every emission cut is monitored and reported for progress and lasting impact.
Through transparency and sustainability, the company sets a benchmark for responsible business in Eastern Europe and beyond.
Embarking on a transformative journey, it has redefined what a sustainable value chain can look like in the modern era.
We present this award to PepsiCo Romania.
ESG INVESTOR OF THE YEAR
This award is presented to a manufacturing company in the automotive industry for which sustainability is not just a principle, but a strategic investment at every level of its operations.
Through innovations such as water-to-water heat pumps, 3.1 MWp solar panels, and a free cooling system, the company reduces thousands of tons of CO₂ annually and conserves vital resources.
Its integrated approach has made its Romanian factory a model of excellence in environmental responsibility, strong governance, and responsible growth, demonstrating authentic leadership in the global automotive industry.
We present this award to Continental Anvelope România.
LEADERSHIP IN SUSTAINABILITY
This award recognizes a company that, in 2024, consolidated its transition toward a sustainable business model with measurable impact across environmental, social, and governance areas.
Its photovoltaic network now covers up to 20% of total energy consumption, and through its energy division, 60% of the energy needed for 30 stores and headquarters comes from renewable sources — supporting the goal of 100% green energy by 2030.
The company has reduced its carbon footprint by over 50%, implemented circular economy measures, saved millions of products, transformed waste into biogas, and recycled textiles.
Socially, it developed local supply chains and supported over 8,800 volunteer actions, promoting diversity — with 70% of employees and 56% of leaders being women.
We proudly present this award to Auchan Retail Romania.
GAME CHANGER IN SUSTAINABILITY
In just two years since its launch, this company has redefined Romania’s path toward sustainability through the development and implementation of the country’s largest circular economy initiative: the Deposit-Return System (SGR).
This nationwide system has reshaped public attitudes toward single-use beverage packaging waste and laid the foundation for a cultural shift toward sustainability.
Its performance stands out across three major impact areas:
- Creating a system tailored to real community needs
- Integrating sustainability principles at every level
- Strengthening community spirit and transforming behavior
The Game Changer in Sustainability Award goes to RetuRO SGR.
