Operational constraints always exist in processes and projects. We must first remember that the sustainability department, as part of a cohesive system that we call the company, is operating, and this means that we must always be in line with the activities and limitations of the overall system. I think we must first accept the limitations and try to align sustainability programs with the existing limitations by using soft skills such as negotiation and managerial skills such as time management, crisis management, and process management."

To reconcile environmental goals with business needs, I focus on these key strategies: Assessing Resources: We start by evaluating what we can commit to without jeopardizing daily operations. This ensures that sustainability efforts are both realistic and impactful. Leveraging Technology: We embrace technology to streamline processes, reduce waste, and increase efficiency, making our business operations more sustainable while improving bottom-line performance. Engaging Stakeholders: We involve employees, customers, and partners to ensure collective support for sustainability goals, fostering a culture of responsibility and accountability throughout the supply chain.

Balancing sustainability and operations can be challenging, but it's all about smart prioritization. In my experience, conducting a resource assessment early helps identify quick wins that don’t disrupt operations. Implementing tech solutions has streamlined waste management while cutting costs. Most importantly, involving employees and partners keeps everyone aligned toward common sustainability goals. Clear communication and shared ownership make reconciling these objectives much more achievable.

Transitioning to sustainable operations can be difficult, despite potential benefits such as cost savings and access to new markets. Companies need to understand their product lifecycle and environmental impact, which may require reviewing assets, the design and development process, and supply chain transparency. Initial investments in eco-friendly technologies and practices can be daunting, and resistance to change, lack of awareness, and concerns about workflow disruptions can create obstacles.

Balancing sustainability with operational goals can be challenging, but integrating the right energy solutions can help. Consider using energy storage to maximize renewable energy use, backup power systems to ensure operational continuity during disruptions, and clean energy sources like wind and solar to reduce reliance on the grid. These solutions allow businesses to optimize energy efficiency and support sustainability without compromising day-to-day operations.

Balancing evolving Sustainability practices against the operational constraints requires an holistic view of the strategic vision of the Company. Ordinarily, the benefits of ensuring that a company in compliant with evolving practices, are not a now thing, thus the need for a pragmatic approach.

To integrate sustainability into your business operations, start by redefining success beyond short-term profits, incorporating environmental and social impact into performance metrics. Shift from a compliance-driven mindset to a value-creation approach, where sustainability fuels innovation, operational resilience, and brand differentiation. Encourage a culture of accountability by embedding sustainable practices into everyday decision-making and incentivizing responsible choices. By taking a holistic, long-term perspective, you can create a business model that thrives while driving positive environmental change.

It's always a challenge, but I believe there’s most of the times a way forward. It’s about understanding the needs of both sides—what’s practical for operations and what’s necessary for a sustainable future. Sometimes that means small, gradual changes, and other times it’s about shifting mindsets with clear evidence and real-world examples. The key is collaboration, creativity, and persistence to ensure sustainability isn’t seen as a burden but as an opportunity for long-term success.