With the Voka Charter Duurzaam Ondernemen (VCDO), companies have a clear and practical framework for making sustainability visible throughout their operations: from energy and mobility to well-being, innovation and good governance. Companies develop an action plan tailored to their organisation, with the support of experts who help identify feasible choices and concrete improvements. The VCDO helps companies structure their sustainability policy, measure results and take meaningful steps forward that create value for the business, its employees and its wider environment.

The VCDO team briefly introduces its approach and gives the floor to two laureates. Arthur Demaeght presents BM Engineering Group, a multidisciplinary engineering firm based in Kortrijk and Antwerp.

“We combine almost 65 years of experience with a constant drive to keep up with the latest developments in technology, materials and ways of working. In this way, we strive for excellence in the projects we contribute to across various sectors. We are experts in technical matters, but we are equally committed to investing in strong human relationships with our construction partners and employees.

The construction sector has a significant environmental footprint worldwide. This includes high energy and water consumption, the large quantities of materials required for construction, the waste generated during demolition and the considerable CO₂ emissions. In other words, we cannot and must not ignore this impact.

That is precisely why we are consciously committed to sustainability and participate in the Voka Charter for Sustainable Business. We recognise that, as a sector, we have a major responsibility, and we firmly believe that we can make a difference. We are happy to contribute by applying our expertise in various areas: smarter design, more efficient construction, advising clients on more sustainable and energy-efficient building, and embracing circular thinking.”

The challenges facing Xpo Group, the organisation behind exhibition venues including Kortrijk Xpo, are equally significant when it comes to sustainability. Jonas Naessens, Strategy Director, explains how they are addressing these challenges.