Across Slovakia, companies are taking tangible steps towards a more sustainable and inclusive future. From cutting-edge energy-saving technologies and zero waste initiatives to groundbreaking employment models for disadvantaged communities, these projects highlight a strong commitment to both environmental responsibility and social equity. The following examples of companies running for the Via Bona awards in the categories of Climate Responsibility and Inclusive Employement showcase how innovation and compassion are driving real change in climate action and inclusive employment.
The Pontis Foundation will hand down the awards to the winners during a gala evening in Design Factory in Jarovce, part of Bratislava, on June 17.
Climate Responsibility
ENERGIA REAL: In-depth Energy Efficiency of a Residential Building
ENERGIA REAL implemented an in-depth energy retrofit project for an apartment building in Bratislava, which included the installation of ERcuper® technology to capture and cycle the energy escaping from the building’s internal environment, i.e. heat from the sewer system and ventilation air from the building. This enabled the project to reduce the original consumption of heat and energy from external sources by 96 percent, resulting in significant financial and environmental savings. In addition to reducing hot water and heating costs, the project contributes to the reduction of CO₂ emissions.
Kaufland: Kaufland on the Road to Zero Waste
The Kaufland retail chain is committed to significantly reducing municipal waste and maximising recycling through its Road to Zero Waste project. It currently reuses and recycles more than 94 percent of its own waste on average. Key activities are the introduction of insect recycling of contaminated plastic packaging and the use of reusable packaging for fruit and vegetables. Kaufland is continuously improving its processes, training employees and increasing the proportion of recycled materials. The aim is to reduce the amount of self-generated waste ending up in landfill or incineration.
Parkan Crudes: Sustainable Insect Protein Production
Parkan Crudes focuses on the production of sustainable insect protein for poultry using food waste from supermarkets. This model replaces traditional proteins such as soy and fishmeal, reducing both the consumption of natural resources and CO₂ emissions in agriculture. Main activities include processing waste into insect protein, research on its effectiveness in poultry feed and analysis of environmental impacts. The project promotes a circular economy, reduces food waste and contributes to sustainable agriculture.
Inclusive Employment
IKEA Bratislava: Safe Working Environment for All
IKEA Bratislava launched a series of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in 2024. These initiatives include both training for all company management on DEI topics and support for the creation of internal diversity groups that propose specific action. Employee volunteer days and other forms of assistance have contributed to the promotion of inclusion-focused NGOs. The company has increased its focus on supporting people with disabilities, the LGBTI+ community, as well as refugee women and men. IKEA regularly evaluates its progress through internal surveys.
MannaFactory: Employment of Disadvantaged Groups
MannaFactory, a registered social enterprise, has created an innovative corporate café model that is successfully operating at IBM and Swiss Re. This concept links social inclusion with the business environment. People with disabilities are fully involved in the work process, both in service and food production, and working conditions are adapted to their individual needs. The aim is to create a sustainable employment model that provides stable income, development for people with disabilities and their integration into society.
Wolf Syrup and Ulič’ Stuffed Dumplings: Employment of Marginalised Roma
This company from under the Poloniny mountain range has long focused on creating employment opportunities in a region suffering from a lack of jobs, especially for women. For newly created positions, they have set the goal of filling these positions with women of Roma origin. They currently make up 28 percent of the total workforce and the company has attracted loyal and efficient female employees. Stable employment in their place of residence facilitates their living situation and contributes to their social inclusion. The project is built on honest communication and the principles of equality, where all male and female employees are seen as equal and without prejudice.
