The Rise of Sustainable Corporations in Europe: A New Era of Responsibility
June 10, 2025, 10:32 pm
In a world where climate change looms large, sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it’s a necessity. European corporations are stepping up, showcasing their commitment to a greener future. Two companies, Atea and KONE, have recently made headlines by being recognized among the most sustainable corporations in Europe. Their achievements highlight a growing trend: businesses are not just about profit anymore; they are about purpose.
Atea, a leader in IT infrastructure across the Nordic and Baltic regions, has been named one of Europe’s 50 Most Sustainable Corporations. This recognition comes from Corporate Knights, a respected organization that evaluates companies based on their sustainability practices. Atea operates in 88 cities and employs nearly 8,000 people. With a revenue of approximately NOK 35 billion (EUR 3 billion) in 2024, Atea is a powerhouse in its field. But it’s not just about numbers. The company’s commitment to sustainability is what sets it apart.
KONE, a giant in the elevator and escalator industry, has also made waves. Ranked 15th in the same sustainability list, KONE is the only company in its sector to achieve this honor. The company’s focus on responsible business practices is evident. KONE’s solutions are designed to drive energy efficiency. Their regenerative drives can recover up to 40% of an elevator’s energy consumption. This is not just innovation; it’s a lifeline for our planet.
Both companies were evaluated based on 25 key performance indicators, covering environmental, social, governance, and economic metrics. This rigorous assessment ensures that only the most committed companies make the cut. The Europe 50 ranking is a beacon, guiding other businesses toward sustainable practices.
Atea’s journey to sustainability is marked by its dedication to reducing its environmental footprint. The company understands that technology can be a double-edged sword. While it drives progress, it can also contribute to environmental degradation. Atea is committed to balancing these forces. By providing consulting and technical services, they help clients design and implement IT environments that are not only efficient but also sustainable.
KONE’s ambition is equally impressive. The company aims to shape the future of cities. Their strategy, aptly named "Rise," focuses on embedding sustainability into every aspect of their operations. KONE was a pioneer in setting ambitious climate targets back in 2020. In 2024, they reported a 29% reduction in emissions from their own operations. This is a significant achievement, reflecting their commitment to making a real impact.
The urgency of climate action cannot be overstated. As cities expand and climate targets become more ambitious, the demand for sustainable solutions grows. Companies like Atea and KONE are not just responding to this demand; they are leading the charge. Their innovative solutions are paving the way for a more sustainable future.
The recognition of Atea and KONE is a testament to the changing landscape of corporate responsibility. Businesses are beginning to understand that sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a fundamental aspect of their operations. The days of prioritizing profit over planet are fading. In their place, a new ethos is emerging—one that values long-term impact over short-term gains.
This shift is crucial. The corporate world has immense power to influence change. By adopting sustainable practices, companies can reduce their carbon footprints, support local communities, and drive economic growth. It’s a win-win scenario. A thriving business can coexist with a healthy planet.
The path to sustainability is not without challenges. Companies must navigate complex supply chains, regulatory requirements, and market demands. However, the rewards are worth the effort. Sustainable companies often enjoy enhanced brand loyalty, improved employee satisfaction, and increased investor interest. In a world where consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, sustainability can be a key differentiator.
As Atea and KONE continue to lead by example, other companies are watching closely. The Europe 50 ranking serves as a roadmap for businesses looking to enhance their sustainability efforts. It’s a call to action, urging companies to evaluate their practices and make meaningful changes.
The future is bright for sustainable corporations. As more companies embrace this ethos, we can expect to see a ripple effect across industries. The corporate landscape is evolving, and sustainability is at the forefront. Atea and KONE are not just participants in this movement; they are trailblazers.
In conclusion, the recognition of Atea and KONE as leaders in sustainability is a significant milestone. It signals a shift in corporate culture, where responsibility and profitability can coexist. As we move forward, let us celebrate these achievements and encourage more companies to follow suit. The journey toward a sustainable future is just beginning, and every step counts. Together, we can create a world where businesses thrive while nurturing the planet.
Atea, a leader in IT infrastructure across the Nordic and Baltic regions, has been named one of Europe’s 50 Most Sustainable Corporations. This recognition comes from Corporate Knights, a respected organization that evaluates companies based on their sustainability practices. Atea operates in 88 cities and employs nearly 8,000 people. With a revenue of approximately NOK 35 billion (EUR 3 billion) in 2024, Atea is a powerhouse in its field. But it’s not just about numbers. The company’s commitment to sustainability is what sets it apart.
KONE, a giant in the elevator and escalator industry, has also made waves. Ranked 15th in the same sustainability list, KONE is the only company in its sector to achieve this honor. The company’s focus on responsible business practices is evident. KONE’s solutions are designed to drive energy efficiency. Their regenerative drives can recover up to 40% of an elevator’s energy consumption. This is not just innovation; it’s a lifeline for our planet.
Both companies were evaluated based on 25 key performance indicators, covering environmental, social, governance, and economic metrics. This rigorous assessment ensures that only the most committed companies make the cut. The Europe 50 ranking is a beacon, guiding other businesses toward sustainable practices.
Atea’s journey to sustainability is marked by its dedication to reducing its environmental footprint. The company understands that technology can be a double-edged sword. While it drives progress, it can also contribute to environmental degradation. Atea is committed to balancing these forces. By providing consulting and technical services, they help clients design and implement IT environments that are not only efficient but also sustainable.
KONE’s ambition is equally impressive. The company aims to shape the future of cities. Their strategy, aptly named "Rise," focuses on embedding sustainability into every aspect of their operations. KONE was a pioneer in setting ambitious climate targets back in 2020. In 2024, they reported a 29% reduction in emissions from their own operations. This is a significant achievement, reflecting their commitment to making a real impact.
The urgency of climate action cannot be overstated. As cities expand and climate targets become more ambitious, the demand for sustainable solutions grows. Companies like Atea and KONE are not just responding to this demand; they are leading the charge. Their innovative solutions are paving the way for a more sustainable future.
The recognition of Atea and KONE is a testament to the changing landscape of corporate responsibility. Businesses are beginning to understand that sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a fundamental aspect of their operations. The days of prioritizing profit over planet are fading. In their place, a new ethos is emerging—one that values long-term impact over short-term gains.
This shift is crucial. The corporate world has immense power to influence change. By adopting sustainable practices, companies can reduce their carbon footprints, support local communities, and drive economic growth. It’s a win-win scenario. A thriving business can coexist with a healthy planet.
The path to sustainability is not without challenges. Companies must navigate complex supply chains, regulatory requirements, and market demands. However, the rewards are worth the effort. Sustainable companies often enjoy enhanced brand loyalty, improved employee satisfaction, and increased investor interest. In a world where consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, sustainability can be a key differentiator.
As Atea and KONE continue to lead by example, other companies are watching closely. The Europe 50 ranking serves as a roadmap for businesses looking to enhance their sustainability efforts. It’s a call to action, urging companies to evaluate their practices and make meaningful changes.
The future is bright for sustainable corporations. As more companies embrace this ethos, we can expect to see a ripple effect across industries. The corporate landscape is evolving, and sustainability is at the forefront. Atea and KONE are not just participants in this movement; they are trailblazers.
In conclusion, the recognition of Atea and KONE as leaders in sustainability is a significant milestone. It signals a shift in corporate culture, where responsibility and profitability can coexist. As we move forward, let us celebrate these achievements and encourage more companies to follow suit. The journey toward a sustainable future is just beginning, and every step counts. Together, we can create a world where businesses thrive while nurturing the planet.