On April 1, 2026, the Hellenic Business Council in Bulgaria (HBCB), in partnership with ICAP CRIF, successfully hosted the Sustainability Forum 2026, bringing together business professionals for a focused and insightful discussion on sustainability, regulation, and real-world application.
The Forum featured two distinguished speakers — Prof. Virginia Zhelyazkova and Ms. Petia Dekova (ICAP CRIF) — who provided valuable perspectives on how sustainability is shaping the business landscape in 2026. The discussion addressed both the evolving regulatory framework and the practical implications for companies across different sectors.
A key highlight of the event was the engaging Q&A session following the presentations, where participants had the opportunity to raise specific questions and receive practical, experience-based insights. This interactive exchange ensured that attendees left with a clearer understanding and actionable guidance relevant to their businesses.
The Forum provided not only a strong conceptual framework, but also practical tools and guidance for implementation. While the strategic perspective highlighted sustainability as a fundamental economic transformation, the practical session demonstrated how companies can approach it in a structured, measurable, and data-driven way — from assessment and scoring to actionable improvement plans and certification processes.
Key Takeaways from the Sustainability Forum
- Sustainability is no longer a compliance topic — it is a strategic and economic transformation shaping how businesses operate, compete, and grow.
- Sustainability is becoming measurable, regulated, and data-driven, with increasing requirements for transparency, verification, and standardisation.
- Carbon and sustainability performance already have a direct financial impact, influencing costs, access to capital, and competitive positioning.
- Regulation is accelerating, creating both new requirements and competitive advantages for companies that act early.
- Sustainability is a long-term journey, not a one-time action, requiring continuous effort and integration across the organization.
- Companies that treat sustainability as strategy — not obligation — will lead, unlocking new opportunities in financing, partnerships, and market access.
The event concluded with a networking cocktail, where guests enjoyed a curated wine experience, kindly provided by Vayk Wines | Vinello, accompanied by professional sommeliers who guided attendees through a selection of exceptional wines. This added a refined and memorable touch to the overall experience, encouraging further conversation and connection.
HBCB extends its sincere thanks to our speakers, partners, and all attendees for contributing to a high-quality and engaging event.
As sustainability continues to evolve as a key business priority, HBCB remains committed to creating platforms that support knowledge exchange, practical insights, and meaningful connections within the business community.
Access the Presentation
To further support our members and partners, HBCB provides access to the ICAP CRIF Sustainability presentation delivered during the Forum.
The material offers practical tools, insights and actionable guidance for companies navigating sustainability requirements and implementation in today’s evolving business environment.
Access is provided to HBCB members and partners.
