In-house lawyer | Enel Green Power
Isessy Alejandra Ballesteros Mendoza
In-house lawyer | Enel Green Power
Can you discuss your or your company’s efforts relating to renewability, sustainability, or other environmentally-friendly activities?
Yes. Enel Green Power is dedicated to renewable energy and has a worldwide presence, with headquarters established in Rome, Italy. It operates in different business areas, all aimed at preserving the environment. We produce renewable energy through various technologies such as solar and wind, including electric wind farms. Our focus is on environmental preservation, and we undertake numerous activities for this purpose. Additionally, the company has expanded into the mobility sector, offering electric buses and infrastructure for charging them. We sell these mobility solutions to many countries, contributing to environmental preservation through their electric offers.
Why are in-house lawyers well-placed to drive change in their organisations?
From a legal perspective, in-house lawyers have a comprehensive understanding of regulatory matters and are able to advocate for activities that mitigate risks and ensure compliance for the company. They provide guidance to senior management, including the board of directors, to make strategic decisions aligned with environmental priorities. Given the emphasis on renewable energy in the industry, it is crucial for companies to be well-versed in regulations and legal requirements.
What, in your opinion, has mostly been missed in discussions about how green a company is?
In many board discussions, there is often a focus on financial statements, sometimes overlooking environmental considerations. It is essential to include environmental factors in discussions about productivity and materials usage. For instance, when manufacturing electric buses, the choice of materials should prioritise environmental friendliness. Board decisions should be aligned with environmental goals, even if it means opting for more environmentally friendly options over cheaper alternatives. It is important to provide regulatory advice to ensure that decisions prioritise environmental sustainability.