Confcooperative reports €2.2 billion investment in sustainability

Confcooperative announced that its member enterprises invested €2.2 billion in sustainability last year, marking an 8.9% increase from the previous year. These funds were directed toward energy efficiency, environmental impact reduction, digitalization, and training.

Maurizio Gardini, president of Confcooperative, stated that these investments are intended to strengthen business competitiveness by combining environmental, social, and economic sustainability. He noted that over 90% of cooperatives are prioritizing energy savings, low-impact materials, and professional training.

However, the organization highlighted that bureaucracy remains a significant burden, costing an estimated €500 million. Gardini described the administrative weight as a hindrance to progress, noting that one in two cooperatives is calling for streamlined regulations to support future competitiveness.