Trentino reaffirms its position at the forefront of national efforts to reshape the relationship between institutions, the economy and the environment. The Autonomous Province of Trento’s Special Strategic and Integrated Marketing Project, known as “Trentino ESG”, has now established itself as the central pillar of the region’s development policies. This is not merely an isolated initiative but an ambitious engine of transformation that places sustainability governance at the heart of the region’s development strategy.
The province as a driver of change
At the heart of this strategy is the creation of a structured governance model, strongly championed by the provincial administration to coordinate local tools, policies and stakeholders. After an initial phase dedicated to laying the foundations, 2026 marks a decisive turning point: the transition towards a systemic and coordinated management of sustainability policies at a regional level.
The province’s stated goal is not merely to encourage “green” practices among businesses but to elevate Trentino to the status of an advanced testing ground for institutional innovation. In this context, sustainability is directly integrated into economic development and public policy, ensuring a long-term vision.
A multi-level network: institutions, businesses and research
The success of the Trentino model stems from its collaborative nature. The autonomous province has established a multi-level governance system involving the active participation of various bodies: the provincial administration and its agencies, the business community and trade associations, the University of Trento and research centres, cultural organisations and local stakeholders.
Technical and operational coordination is overseen by the province’s Strategic Mission Unit for Housing Resilience, Sustainability and Territorial Cohesion and the ESG Division of Trentino Sviluppo. These synergies enable the alignment of the business sector’s needs with public strategies, thereby ensuring that every action is consistent with the region’s environmental and social objectives.
Practical tools and benefits for businesses
ESG governance translates into practical tools capable of making a difference in the global market. Trentino’s Charter of Sustainability Values serves as a strategic compass, whilst the new regional brand and the ESG assessment model provide companies with clear benchmarks for measuring their impact.
During 2026, these tools will enter into full operation, with a strong focus on supporting micro and small businesses through dedicated training and services. The province has also introduced a significant incentive: a link between ESG assessment and access to grants, rewards in public tenders and incentives, turning sustainability into a genuine lever for economic competitiveness.
A community for the future
The Autonomous Province of Trento has chosen to lead by example. In early 2026, the feasibility study for obtaining a regional ESG rating was finalised. This initiative, involving various provincial departments across the board, aims to establish an internal sustainability reporting model within the public administration. The goal is clear: ensuring total transparency and scientifically monitoring the effectiveness of public policies across the region.
The project thrives on the active participation of stakeholders. The community of sustainability managers in Trentino has become the prime forum for the exchange of best practices between the public and private sectors. At the same time, collaboration with the University of Trento has continued to produce advanced measurement and reporting methodologies, ensuring the Trentino model has a solid scientific foundation.
In conclusion, 2026 establishes Trentino not only as a destination of excellence but also as a resilient ecosystem where sustainability has become a structural and measurable element. Led by the province, the region is ready to generate lasting value for present and future generations.
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