Italy has made significant strides in integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its regulatory framework, particularly within the financial sector.
While there isn't a specific set of laws dedicated solely to ESG in Italy, the country has embraced sustainability aims through its Constitution, Civil Code, and various legislative initiatives.
This alignment with the European Union’s directives has paved the way for robust ESG regulations, particularly impacting financial intermediaries and the broader corporate sector.
In this blog, we will walk through the key aspects of EDCI in Italy. First of all, let’s go through this quick definition of EDCI.
Understanding the ESG data convergence initiative (EDCI)
The ESG Data Convergence Initiative (EDCI) is a collaborative effort by major investors and private equity firms to standardize ESG data reporting. The need for such an initiative arises from the inconsistency and lack of comparability in current ESG data, making it challenging for investors and companies to assess performance accurately.
How EDCI works
The EDCI develops a core set of ESG metrics that companies are encouraged to measure and report. By creating a common set of standards, the EDCI fosters collaboration and the sharing of best practices across industries. This initiative is particularly relevant in Italy, where the emphasis on governance and transparency aligns with the goals of the EDCI.
How does Italy support EDCI
EU regulatory framework connection:
Italy’s ESG regulations are heavily influenced by the EU’s overarching directives. This connection drives the development of domestic policies that encourage risk management, transparency, and governance.
Emphasis on risk management and disclosure:
With growing importance placed on governance and due diligence, Italian businesses are increasingly adopting ESG practices. The stringent regulations on financial intermediaries, such as banks and hedge funds, have led to broader corporate adoption of ESG principles.
Support for the third sector:
Legislative Decree 117/2017 reorganized Italy’s third sector, comprising non-profit organizations that traditionally pursue goals of general interest. These themes are now extending into profit-making businesses, either voluntarily or through regulation.
Notable legislative initiatives to support EDCI
Tax deduction program (2007):
Organizations performing energy requalification work can benefit from a 50% or 65% tax reduction, encouraging investments in sustainability.
Società benefit (Law 208/2015):
This legal structure mandates ESG considerations for Italian organizations and offers financial incentives for compliance.
Super bonus (2020):
A 110% tax credit is available for energy requalification and seismic structural enhancements in building rehabilitation projects. This incentive, initially set to expire at the end of 2022, demonstrates Italy's commitment to sustainable development.
The conclusion
Italy’s integration of ESG principles, supported by EU directives and innovative legislative measures, creates a fertile ground for initiatives like the EDCI.
As Italy continues to enhance its ESG framework, the EDCI's standardized reporting metrics will be crucial in driving transparency, sustainability, and long-term value for both businesses and investors.
The convergence of these efforts marks a major milestone in the journey toward a more sustainable and equitable financial system.
ESG Flo can support the ESG Data Convergence Initiative (EDCI) in Italy by providing a streamlined way to align with standardized ESG reporting metrics. ESG Flo’s AI-driven platform can integrate diverse data sources, helping companies efficiently generate accurate, audit-ready ESG reports that adhere to EDCI’s standards. This capability enhances consistency and transparency in ESG reporting, aligning with Italy’s evolving regulatory framework and the EDCI’s goals.
Sources:
https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=462f1e36-f269-4ea9-9879-9f9a0c04e9d6
https://drooms.com/whitepapers/english/220808_Drooms-ESG-Italy_Factsheet_EN.pdf