On September 25, we mark National Sustainability Day. And that's exactly what it means: it's marked. It's true that sustainability has entered the everyday lexicon, it's true that governments have been regulating these matters and committing to objectives and targets, and it's true that citizens are increasingly aware of the issue. However, it is also true that there is still a lot to be done. And this National Sustainability Day should remind us of that.

Portugal has demonstrated a significant commitment to the sustainable development agenda, which cuts across parties, governments and different public policies. This commitment becomes even more relevant if we take into account the structural challenges the country faces, despite the progress made: dependence on fossil fuels, the growing impacts of climate change - particularly water scarcity - environmental degradation, the urgent need to preserve biodiversity, social inequalities, among others. But the challenge of sustainability is not exclusive to politicians and policies: companies have an important role to play, which goes far beyond simply complying with the regulatory framework and reporting. By integrating sustainability into management, companies reinforce their competitive advantages, strengthen their positioning and promote their resilience.

I believe that we will only be able to celebrate this National Sustainability Day when companies integrate sustainability criteria into all decision-making processes in the different areas of their business: from product design to manufacturing. From human resources management to relations with partners and suppliers. Doing so is necessary. And it's urgent. But we are all aware of the difficulties. GRACE exists to do just that. To promote initiatives and encourage collaboration between companies, government and civil society, reinforcing the message that sustainability is a collective path that benefits everyone. To support companies at this time of transformation, amplifying the impact of change and ensuring that the adoption of sustainable practices creates long-term value for business and society.

In 24 years we have supported hundreds of companies. In the next 24, we want to continue doing so with even more impact. To celebrate sustainability instead of marking it.

*Isabel Barros, representing Sonae SGPS.