Verston Group was proud to participate in Impact Day 2024, the largest sustainability event in the Baltics, which brought together innovators and thought leaders to discuss actionable strategies for a sustainable future. Our board members, Jüri Tamm and Jarmo Liiver, actively engaged in critical discussions on how the infrastructure sector can play a leading role in reducing carbon emissions and shaping a greener future.
Role of the Infrastructure Sector in Carbon Reduction – Insights from Jüri Tamm
Jüri Tamm, Co-CEO of Verston Group, took part in a panel alongside Peep Fibenol to discuss how public-private partnerships (PPP) could accelerate the adoption of green technologies. One of the main messages emerging from the discussion was: the infrastructure sector must lead the way in reducing CO2 emissions. Jüri emphasized that this sector not only knows the solutions needed but also how to build and maintain them. By leveraging strategic partnerships with the public sector, infrastructure companies can make significant strides in sustainability.
However, Jüri also noted that before engaging with the public sector, companies must first shape their internal strategies. He stressed the importance of developing impactful solutions and products, allocating resources, and motivating teams to drive meaningful change. “Create your innovation to make an impact,” he said, underlining the need for clear communication and collaboration with industry associations to amplify these efforts.
Another key takeaway from the discussions was the long-term vision over short-term targets. “Don’t let short-term sales goals overrun your long-term mission,” Jüri urged a<nd continued “Instead, focus on building a future where the infrastructure sector is at the forefront of global sustainability efforts.”
Diverse Energy Solutions – Reflections from Jarmo Liiver
CFO Jarmo Liiver’s experience at Impact Day echoed a similar sentiment about the need for a broader approach to sustainability. He attended a presentation by Mats Hultman, Head of OEM Partnership, Neste, where they were promoting Neste My Renewable Diesel as an alternative to the sole/heavy reliance on electric energy solutions.
Jarmo highlighted that while electric vehicles are crucial, the rapidly surging energy consumption warrants us to be better prepared to meet the bolstering demands. It is clear that more of such diverse energy solutions will be required to meet future sustainability goals.
One of the most interesting reflections for Jarmo came from a surprise presentation by Lea Brückner, a violinist from Germany. Lea highlighted a unique perspective on the huge carbon footprint generated due to live performances within the entertainment industry. The artist emphasized the urgent need for addressing the negative environmental impact of live performances and how the industry is tackling this challenge. Lea also suggested the possibility of moving events online as a potential solution, while acknowledging that live experiences are largely irreplaceable, however.
Jarmo also reflected on Jüri’s panel with Peep Pitk from Fibenol, where discussions delved into the infrastructure of green energy. Peep introduced a thought-provoking question: “Why is no one asking which roads attendees took to get here? Were they CO2-free?” This insight aligns with Verston’s own commitment to green infrastructure, as we continue to focus on making transportation more sustainable.
Rethinking Corporate Leadership
A final takeaway from Impact Day 2024 came from a panel discussion on gender equality in corporate leadership, attended by both Jüri and Jarmo. The debate featured perspectives from Peeter Koppel, Riina Sikut, and Mihkel Nestor, covering whether regulations should enforce equality in leadership or whether market dynamics should dictate the best candidates for positions. The panelists also explored how education systems shape the leadership pipeline, sparking an important reflection for Verston on ensuring diversity and inclusivity within its own leadership teams.
As Jarmo and Jüri agreed, “We need to review our own board composition with this reflection in mind.”
Moving Forward with Purpose
Impact Day 2024 was a powerful reminder of the infrastructure sector’s responsibility to lead in sustainability efforts. Both Jüri and Jarmo returned from the conference energized with new insights and a renewed focus on Verston’s mission: to reduce carbon emissions and drive the transition to a greener future. By collaborating with public and private sector partners, and ensuring internal alignment around long-term sustainability goals, Verston is well-positioned to be a leader in the transformation of European infrastructure.