Economic Success with Social Responsibility – Organized by the UN Global Compact Network Georgia and supported by Sweden’s financial assistance, the ‘Corporate Sustainability Award – Business for Sustainable Development’ ceremony was held for the 7th time.
The event aimed to recognize responsible businesses that contribute to the implementation of the corporate sustainability agenda in Georgia.
Quality Education; Decent Work and Economic Growth; Sustainable Cities and Communities; Responsible Consumption and Production; Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions; Partnerships for Sustainable Development – This year, winners were selected in six key categories aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In each nomination category, there were two winners: one representing large businesses and the other small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Based on the evaluation of an independent jury composed of Georgian and international members, EFES Georgia received awards in the large business category in two nominations: Decent Work and Economic Growth and Responsible Consumption and Production. Additionally, at the awards ceremony, UN Global Compact Network Georgia’s SDG Pioneer 2024 Award in the large business category was presented to Keti Zhvania, Public Relations and Digital Communications Manager of EFES Georgia.
“Corporate sustainability is a declared priority for EFES Georgia,” says Keti Zhvania, Public Relations and Digital Communications Manager of EFES Georgia. “For over 16 years, we have been implementing various projects in the field of corporate responsibility. The awards received within the framework of the UN Global Compact Network Georgia’s program are a recognition of our efforts in this direction, reaffirming that we are on the right path. In the future, we will certainly continue and expand our activities to strengthen a decent work environment, contribute to the economic growth of both our company and the country, and further develop sustainable consumption and production.”
At the event, discussions were held with the participation of winning companies, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps and international organizations. Levan Iselidze, Marketing Director of EFES Georgia, and Keti Zhvania took part in panel discussions focused on the award’s categories thematic.
“In 2024, compared to the previous year, business interest and engagement in corporate sustainability have increased significantly,” Salome Zurabishvili, Executive Director of the UN Global Compact Network Georgia, noted. “This year, the number of applications for the seventh ‘Corporate Sustainability Award – Business for Sustainable Development’ has grown considerably. In the first stage of the competition, 157 applications were submitted, and after the initial selection, 110 applications advanced to the second round.
“We believe that in the 21st century, sustainability is a competitive advantage. Efficient resource utilization, risk reduction, and the creation of long-term value—implementing ethical business practices and promoting societal well-being—are becoming increasingly attractive for Georgian businesses each year.”
The organizers of the event plan to continue recognizing responsible businesses in Georgia in the future. Businesses from the regions will also have the opportunity to participate in the ‘Corporate Sustainability Award – Business for Sustainable Development’ initiative.
By Team GT
