The Most Challenging ESG Criteria to Meet in Bulgaria

ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) has already become a key factor for business sustainability and competitiveness. New European requirements such as the CSRD and the EU Taxonomy Regulation impose mandatory reporting on environmental, social, and governance impact. But which criteria are the most challenging for Bulgarian companies — and how can they meet them effectively?

Environmental Criteria (E): Carbon Footprint and Energy Efficiency

Many companies struggle to measure and report their environmental performance — especially regarding emissions and energy consumption. 📊 According to SeeNext, over 40% of companies in Bulgaria have already started training programs to improve technical skills and energy efficiency.

Practical steps:

• Conduct an energy audit and measure your energy consumption and emissions (Scope 1 and 2).

• Implement energy-saving technologies and switch to renewable sources.

• Publish your results — transparency strengthens your ESG rating.

Social Criteria (S): People and Community

ESG requires companies to demonstrate commitment to their employees and the broader community.

📊 Data shows that 32% of Bulgarian companies have over 40% women in leadership positions — a result above the EU average.

Practical steps:

• Develop an equality policy and track key performance indicators.

• Support training programs and team development initiatives.

• Document social causes and community projects — they add real value to your ESG profile.

Governance Criteria (G): Ethics and Accountability

Many companies still lack a systematic approach to risk management, ethics, and accountability. 📊 In Bulgaria, legislation now requires public companies to publish ESG reports following the “comply or explain” model.

Practical steps:

• Establish an internal ESG team and a corporate ethics code.

• Define a clear process for monitoring and public reporting.

• Integrate ESG objectives into your annual business strategy.

🚀 Why ESG Certification Matters

ESG certification is not just a formality — it builds trust with investors and clients, improves access to green financing, and demonstrates that your business is ready for future regulations.

Now is the time to act. Start with an internal assessment, implement core ESG policies, and pursue certification that proves your company’s commitment to sustainable growth.