Green Rock Management Group CEO Varazdat Nersisyan’s interview to Banks.am.

- Mr. Nersisyan, what are your expectations from the March 6 “Sustainable development and ESG: global agenda, local needs” conference partnered by Green Rock Management Group?

- First of all, I would like to welcome the idea of the organizers of the conference. This conference presents a unique opportunity for companies to engage in productive discussions with industry leaders and explore innovative approaches to find solutions to complex environmental and sustainable development issues.

The conference promises to become an important platform facilitating connections with fellow professionals, potential partners and governmental as well as non-governmental organizations.

I want to emphasize the engagement of Jon Dee, the co-founder and president of Do Something, in the project. I especially like his Sustainable Growth: Small Business, Big Opportunities work which may be considered a wonderful manual for small and medium-sized businesses.

- Is ESG in Armenia more a wish than a reality?

- Environmental, social and management practices in Armenia are not yet a complete reality, but the country holds a promising position to not only adopt ESG principles within its economic and social environment, but also to effectively introduce them.

The recent political, economic and social reforms in Armenia, as well as the government’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, create a solid foundation for the introduction of ESG principles.

“Sustainability and ESG: global agenda, local needs” Robust Armenia conference also testifies to our country’s awareness of the importance of combining global priorities with local realities.

I am confident that with the joint efforts of all stakeholders, Armenia can build a sustainable future that meets international standards and local needs. As a socially responsible entity, Green Rock Management Group is committed to advancing ESG practices. Our commitment to environmental protection, social responsibility and ethical management is reflected in our business practices. We realize that the integration of ESG principles is the key to long-term business success and contributes to Armenia’s sustainable development.

- Can Armenian companies set their own standards?

- To create a balanced and responsible business ecosystem, companies pursue social responsibility independently, and the state acts as a regulator and supporting institution. And yes, Armenian companies have the opportunity to set their own standards and take voluntary responsibility in the field of social, environmental and corporate responsibility.

Our company can also be an example in this regard. Prioritizing environmental protection, currently one employee from each our projects is taking EDGE certification.

EDGE is a certification system for green buildings in emerging markets, primarily aimed at helping developers and investors determine the most efficient ways to design buildings with lesser use of energy, water and material. This facilitates the measurement and certification of building’s environmental performance, with a particular focus on enhancing energy savings and resource efficiency. EDGE is a worldwide recognized certification system, and its implementation is supported by various organizations and governments across the globe.

This will enable us to conduct an internal audit, refining our construction processes for efficiency and environmental sustainability.

However, sustainability is not only about just buildings and structures.

Transport is also an important part. Transport emissions are the main cause of air pollution in Armenian cities. In 2022 the annual emissions in Armenia reached 6.41 million tons, accounting for 0.02 of global CO2 emissions. To partially contribute to the solution of this issue, we have purchased Toyota Corolla Hybrid 2023 cars for Dilijan, where our primary investments are focused, to serve as taxis.

Hybrid cars operate using two energy sources: electric and thermal.

At speeds below 50 km/h, the system switches off the car’s heat engine to start the electric motor, reducing CO2 emissions.

“Sustainable development and ESG: global agenda, local needs” conference will take place on March 6, 2024 in Tigran Mets hall of Armenia Marriott hotel. For additional information please call 010 54 45 31 or write to news@mediamax.am.

The program of the conference is available here: https://banks.am/en/news/newsfeed/27298.