The BPCC has just concluded two intensive days of workshops dedicated to sustainable development, with a particular focus on the carbon footprint of organisations and products. On 18 June 2024, we gathered at the Environmental Education Centre PZO in Gliwice, where Karol Piórkowski and Jakub Hiterski from Redshaw Advisors initiated the training, highlighting the goals and significance of the ESG reporting directive. Following this, Artur Rogozik and Michał Frąckowiak from TGC Corporate Lawyers explained the legal foundations of ESG reporting, discussing the reporting obligations and the consequences of non-compliance. Dr Krzysztof Starzyk from Starzyk Group presented the methodology for balancing greenhouse gas emissions, and provided a detailed explanation of the process for calculating the carbon footprint of organisations and products, including the scopes of emissions as outlined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. Krzysztof Szaliński, president of PEC Gliwice, outlined the strategy for sharing the heating network as a solution to the energy trilemma. The workshops concluded with a discussion on emission offsetting and financial risk management led by Karol Piórkowski and Jakub Hiterski, followed by a lively debate over coffee.

The following day, on 19 June, another workshop took place at the KSSENON Business Accelerator in Żory, under the patronage of the town’s mayor. As in Gliwice, Karol Piórkowski and Jakub Hiterski introduced the participants to the subject matter. Artur Rogozik and Michał Frąckowiak covered the legal bases of ESG reporting, emphasising the obligations and sanctions associated with reporting. Dr Krzysztof Starzyk continued his presentation on calculating the carbon footprint, providing practical examples and guidance on managing emissions. Dr Iwona Kapustka, president of the Żory Enterprise Agency, introduced innovative projects as part of the Żory. Transformation 2.0 – Projects of the Future initiative, focusing on forward-looking solutions for the city. The workshops concluded with Karol Piórkowski and Jakub Hiterski’s presentation on emission offsetting, followed by another engaging discussion over coffee.

Both events provided participants with theoretical knowledge as well as the practical skills necessary for effectively managing the carbon footprint in their organisations. The insight-laden presentations, engaging discussions, and networking opportunities inspired participants to express their interest in attending future editions of such training sessions.