The Harmonious Relationship: Balancing Social Needs with Environmental Preservation
In a recent survey by the Social Sustainability Observatory of Fondazione Sodalitas, Italians have highlighted their top priorities for social and environmental change. The findings reveal a strong emphasis on combating climate change, promoting social equality, and ensuring business ethics.
The survey, which will be presented in Milan on March 17, 2025, shows that "work and economic growth" is the top priority area on which Italians believe urgent action is needed, with 55% of respondents expressing this view. This finding underscores the importance Italians place on economic stability and growth, but also suggests a recognition that these objectives must be achieved in a sustainable manner.
Climate change and energy transition are a close second, with 70% of Italians prioritizing correct waste disposal, 65% advocating for the reduction of polluting emissions, and 60% supporting the use of renewable energy as key actions for businesses to take against climate change and pollution.
Social sustainability is also a significant concern for Italians. "Health and well-being" ranks third as a priority area, with 52% of respondents expressing this view. Italians also prioritize commitment to employee well-being (46%), with adequate and fair remuneration (58%) and respect for workers' rights (58%) being the top priorities. Quality of work and work-life balance are also important considerations, with 37% and 35% of respondents respectively expressing these priorities.
Environmental and social sustainability are perceived as priorities by citizens, with the Government being seen as the most influential actor for social and environmental change (50% and 32% respectively). Businesses are perceived as the third most influential actor (36% and 37%), while European institutions are seen as the second most influential (44% and 34%).
The young are the most informed on environmental and social sustainability topics, and Italians expect businesses to make a significant contribution to social sustainability. Sustainable businesses are also seen as having reputation and business advantages.
Lastly, Italians recognize the importance of addressing both environmental and social dimensions of sustainability with equal commitment. Correctness of business behaviors is the third priority for Italians regarding business contribution to social sustainability (42%).
The 3rd Report of the Social Sustainability Observatory of Fondazione Sodalitas, to be presented in Milan on March 17, 2025, promises to provide further insights into these findings and offer recommendations for achieving a more sustainable future for Italy.
- The Environmental Science field, with its focus on combating climate change, aligns closely with Italians' top priorities for social and environmental change, as evidenced by the survey conducted by the Social Sustainability Observatory of Fondazione Sodalitas.
- In the realm of business, Italians anticipate a significant contribution towards personal-finance and social sustainability, with a majority expressing support for adequate and fair remuneration, respect for workers' rights, and commitment to employee well-being.
- As the 3rd Report of the Social Sustainability Observatory of Fondazione Sodalitas emphasizes, businesses must not only prioritize financial growth but also address climate-change and sustainability issues, ensuring a balance between environmental and business ethics as Italians perceive when evaluating the influence of businesses for social and environmental change.
