In the realm of environmental sustainability and resilience-building, navigating the landscape of funding opportunities can often feel like traversing uncharted territory. Among the myriad of avenues available, the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) stands out as a sustainable prospect funding initiative.

At the core of accessing RRF funding lies a pivotal component: the Do No Significant Harm principle identified as a prerequisite for RRF funding through the DNSH report. But what exactly is a DNSH report, and why is it indispensable for securing RRF funding? In essence, the DNSH principle and the relevant report serves as a comprehensive roadmap, guiding organizations towards sustainable growth and resilience-building strategies. It delves deep into the environmental, social, and health challenges facing communities and identifies strategic priorities for addressing them. By providing a detailed analysis of current needs, future aspirations, and targeted interventions, the DNSH principle lays the groundwork for impactful sustainability projects that resonate at both local and global levels.

In more detail, a DNSH report ensures that projects do not cause significant harm to environmental objectives as defined by the EU Taxonomy Regulation. These objectives include climate change mitigation and adaptation, the sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources, the transition to a circular economy, pollution prevention and control, and the protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems. This meticulous assessment aligns with various EU regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (CSDD) directive, and with national environmental licensing regulations, ensuring comprehensive compliance and promoting sustainability, also.

At GREEN2SUSTAIN, we recognize the paramount importance of DNSH reports in navigating the RRF funding landscape. With our expertise in environmental consultancy, we are committed to assisting aspiring investors and their investment plans in preparing and submitting DNSH reports that meet the stringent requirements set forth by funding authorities. Our approach in preparing a DNSH report is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. We work closely with investors from various sectors to thoroughly assess their needs, review the particular features of their investments and integrate cutting-edge solutions into every facet of the report. By leveraging our industry-leading methodologies and best practices, we ensure that DNSH reports not only fulfil funding criteria but also catalyze positive environmental and social impacts.

In addition to DNSH reports, we offer comprehensive Sustainability Proofing reports. These reports evaluate the alignment of investment plans, exceeding 10 million €, with sustainability goals, ensuring they contribute positively to the environment and society. Our Sustainability Proofing reports include a detailed analysis of potential impacts on biodiversity, water resources, and pollution levels. We also assess the circularity potential of projects, ensuring they align with the principles of a circular economy. Investments requiring the preparation of a Sustainability Proofing report typically include large-scale infrastructure projects, renewable energy installations, urban development plans, and significant industrial upgrades. These projects often have substantial environmental footprints and require detailed assessments to ensure compliance with sustainability criteria and funding eligibility under RRF[1].

Furthermore, green (finance) tagging is emerging as a critical aspect within the RRF and private funding framework, ensuring that funded projects contribute to environmental and digital transformation objectives outlined by the EU Taxonomy Regulation. In the instance of investors seeking RRF funding, green tagging aims at identifying the investments’ budget contribution towards ensuring sustainability, while digital tagging focuses on identifying the investments’ budget contribution aimed at digital transformation and innovation aspects. In the case of investors seeking financial aid by banking institutions, green tagging involves a structured procedure in the context of which banks analyse the environmental characteristics of their loans and the assets serving as collateral, aiming to facilitate the expansion of sustainable finance.

For both the fulfilment of all the abovementioned regulatory objectives, as well as the accomplishment of private investment plans GREEN2SUSTAIN has undertaken extensive analyses, providing detailed insights into the environmental and social impacts of various projects, thus preparing numerous DNSH and Sustainability Proofing reports. From large-scale infrastructure developments to renewable energy installations and hospitality projects, our reports have assessed the alignment of investment plans exceeding €1,7 billion in total budget value. Additionally, our thorough evaluations have included relevant assessments of more than 37 projects.

Alongside our proven expertise, these reports stand as testament to our commitment to driving meaningful change and fostering sustainability in every facet of investment and development. Going forward, the incorporation of DNSH and Sustainability Proofing reports into businesses’ operational framework and core strategies will prove increasingly vital. These reports, if generally endorsed, will not only ensure compliance with regulatory requirements but also align investments with sustainability goals, enhancing resilience and long-term viability.

In the wake of growing environmental concerns and stakeholder expectations, businesses that embrace DNSH and Sustainability Proofing will gain a competitive edge by demonstrating their commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Moreover, integrating these practices into business strategies can mitigate risks associated with climate change, resource scarcity, and reputational damage, thereby safeguarding investments and enhancing stakeholder trust. By embedding DNSH and Sustainability Proofing into decision-making processes, businesses can drive innovation, foster efficiency gains, and create value for shareholders, customers, and communities alike.

GREEN2SUSTAIN is committed at uncovering the transformative potential of DNSH and Sustainability Proofing reports. Through insightful analysis, practical guidance, and unwavering commitment, we are poised to empower organizations to embrace sustainability as a cornerstone of resilience and growth.

[1] Within the Greek regulatory framework, the investments necessitating the preparation of the Sustainability Proofing report, are associated with the characterization “Flagship investments of exceptional importance”.