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Shaping 2050 in Images – The BCSDH Social Capital Creative Hub Begins Co-Creating a Shared Vision

On November 27, 2025, Future FM Ltd. hosted the BCSDH Social Capital Creative Hub. The name itself underscores that the group functions as an inspiring professional community working toward a more sustainable and human-centered world.

In her welcome remarks, Deputy CEO Katalin Takács highlighted that this venue was chosen because Future FM, in close collaboration with Tata Consultancy Services, obtained the Eco-Friendly Service certification in office cleaning within this building.

During the first part of the meeting, Program Manager Zita Szederkényi reviewed the 2025 year of “Future Leaders” program, reflecting on participant feedback. The 12th cohort found the program highly valuable, particularly the professional knowledge acquired and corporate practices explored. Additionally, attendees were introduced to the key innovations and development opportunities planned for 2026.

The second part of the meeting focused on creation. Under the guidance of Dr. József Kolossa, Lead Sustainability Advisor at HuGBC, the co-creation process began to envision the kind of world we want to live in by 2050. Individual visions were developed using texts and AI-generated images. This process will continue in 2026, culminating in the development of a shared vision and actionable roadmap.

 

Masterplast extends its green program to glass wool products

Masterplast will further expand its circular economy system from November 2025.

Masterplast will further expand its circular economy system from November 2025.
The Hungarocell Green Program will now cover not only the collection and recycling of its own polystyrene-based thermal insulation materials, but also the glass wool products sold by Masterplast Hungária Kft. The aim of the initiative is for the company to be the first in the domestic construction industry to implement responsible manufacturing thinking and a culture of recycling in the field of mineral wool insulation.

As part of the new program, Masterplast Hungária Kft. collects thermal insulation material from the use, cutting, or demolition of the glass wool products it sells and then recycles it at its glass wool factory in Szerencs. The processed raw material is used to make “Loose Wool” blow-in insulation, which is ideal for energy-efficient thermal insulation of attics and roof spaces. The Hungarocell Green Program collection points, the Eco-Points, also function as collection logistics stations in this case, and the collection method will be similar to that used in the Hungarocell Green Program with collection bags.

With this development, Masterplast is once again playing a pioneering role in sustainable building material production: no other manufacturer in the country currently has a similar circular reuse system that also covers glass wool, thus reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation and green practices.

“The expansion of the Hungarocell Green Program is another step in Masterplast’s sustainability strategy. Our goal is to achieve complete material recycling in as many product groups as possible and to reduce the amount of construction waste. The recycling of glass wool is an important milestone in this process,” said Tibor Dávid, Chairman and CEO of Masterplast Nyrt.

 

The Hungarocell Green Program was launched in 2020, and in its first year, it managed to collect and recycle over 1,000 cubic meters of polystyrene waste. The program has since achieved nationwide coverage, and the annual recycling volume exceeds 10,000 cubic meters. The current expansion further strengthens the program’s objective: to make sustainable, environmentally friendly construction practices available to consumers in the domestic market.

𝗱𝘀𝗺-𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁: 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

𝗱𝘀𝗺-𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁: 𝗔𝗱𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 brought together 𝟭𝟱𝟬 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 from 𝗛𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗿𝘆, 𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗮, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗮𝗻𝘀 for two inspiring days of learning, connection, and innovation.

  • 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟭: Insightful talks & networking at the Flow Hotel, Inárcs
  • 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟮: Behind-the-scenes plant tour in Újhartyán

Together, we explored the future of animal nutrition — focused on building a more sustainable and efficient industry.

Thank you to everyone who made it unforgettable!

Increasing material use is responsible for more than half of the harmful impacts on the climate – the transition to a circular economy is inevitable.

On 20 November 2025, the Circular Economy Summit was held for the eighth time at Öbölház, where corporate leaders, researchers, and policymakers gathered to discuss the latest challenges and opportunities associated with the circular transition. The event was hosted by Willem van Ee, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Attila Chikán Jr., President of the Business Council for Sustainable Development in Hungary (BCSDH).

“The Circularity Gap Report 2025 shows that although we have taken small steps forward, due to increasing material use, only 6.9% of material flows can be considered circular, which represents a setback compared to last year’s 7.2%. Growing material consumption is responsible for 60% of harmful climate impacts, more than 90% of biodiversity loss and water stress related to land use, and around 40% of health-damaging particulate pollution. This is a clear signal that systemic change, cooperation, and consistent corporate action are needed to advance the transition to a circular economy.” – highlighted Attila Chikán Jr. in his opening remarks.

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

“The main findings of the report highlight that global material use continues to grow while circular performance is declining. The foundations of the linear model – large-scale extraction, short product lifecycles, and high levels of waste generation – are hindering the sustainable functioning of the economy. Although efficiency and technological developments are improving, these alone cannot counterbalance the rising demand for materials. The report emphasizes that recycling on its own could raise the circularity rate to a maximum of only 25%, which is why prevention, new business models, material substitution, longer product lifecycles, and systemic cooperation are indispensable.”

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

The keynote speaker at the event was Prof. Dr. Jacqueline Cramer, emeritus professor at Utrecht University, who presented how significant progress toward a circular economy can be achieved at both national and sectoral levels, using the Dutch Concrete Agreement as an example. In her lecture, she pointed out: “The transition to a circular economy offers an exciting opportunity to reduce environmental burdens while strengthening business development and innovation. At the same time, no single company, government, or citizen can accomplish this transition alone. To realise change, cooperation among product chain partners or regional actors is needed. Independent intermediaries, so-called brokers, can help coordinate stakeholders and accelerate the process.”

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

“BCSDH’s international event, which involves bringing the European Circular Economy Hotspot meeting to Budapest on 5–7 October 2026, aims to highlight the importance and opportunities of the circular economy. Our goal is to showcase the most innovative circular and sustainable economic practices, promote Hungary’s achievements, and support the creation of new collaborations,” shared Irén Márta, Managing Director of BCSDH, with participants.

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

Ambassador Willem van Ee highlighted: ‘We say in the Netherlands: “We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.” Through forward-looking policies, innovative partnerships, and collective commitment, we are indeed adjusting our sails — steering our economy toward a circular, sustainable and regenerative future that other nations can learn from.’

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

Hungarian policy directions were presented by Dr. Péter Bera, Head of Department at the State Secretariat for Circular Economy and Climate Policy of the Ministry of Energy, who outlined the possibilities for national implementation and the challenges that lie ahead. Joost van Dun, Head of Circular Economy at ING Sustainable Finance, gave a presentation on the financing framework for the circular transition.

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

At the roundtable discussion focusing on corporate innovation, moderated by Dr. Bálint Bartha-Horváth (Senior Sustainability Consultant, CBRE), Noémi Bakos (Founder, Equinox), Krisztina Bogdán (CEO, ING Bank), and Anita Simon (Deputy CEO, Alteo Group) shared their practical experiences.

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

In the corporate pitch session, four organisations – Cyclosteel (László Vadas, Managing Director), DBH Group (László Ürge, Member of the Board), Decathlon (Diána Andri, Sustainability Director), and Terra Matters (Laetitia Georgel, Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development Expert) – presented their practical innovations that directly support the dissemination of the circular model in Hungary.

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

BCSDH’s 2025 programmes and the planned professional directions for 2026 were presented by Ivett Takács.

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

At the event, Melinda Topolcsik, Managing Director of Bridgestone Tatabánya, personally received the ‘Sustainable Future Award’ in the Leading Woman category. Her certificate was presented by Attila Chikán Jr., with the award being handed over by Judit Szabó, Head of Communications at Progress Ltd.

 

The Tulip Award for Sustainability

The Circular Economy Summit hosted the award-giving ceremony of the ‘Tulip Award for Sustainability,’ established by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Hungary.

The award aims to annually recognize SMEs, start-ups, companies, or nonprofit organizations that demonstrate outstanding performance in sustainability within a given industry. This year’s theme was ‘Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency.’

Nagy Z.Laszlo nagyzl@nagyzl.hu

The award was won by SSH System Ltd. for developing and promoting its straw blanket as a renewable, environmentally friendly, energy-efficient architectural solution. The award was received by Tímea Stverteczky, Chief Financial Officer.

 

In the conclusion to the summit, during a collaborative session, participants shared their thoughts on the challenges and opportunities they encounter in their companies during the transition to circular operations. This was followed by an opportunity for informal networking and lunch.

The moderators of each table were: Gábor Arató – Manupackaging International Kft.; Zsombor Barta – Greenbors Consulting; Dr. Viktória Bodnár – IFUA Horváth & Partners Kft.; Dr. Bálint Bartha-Horváth – CBRE; Péter Chrabák – Bay Zoltán Research Center; Brigitta Deák – Greenpro Zrt.; László Ürge – DBH Group; Róbert Üveg – Danucem Magyarország Kft. – CRH CEE Division, Dr. Marina Varga – Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The main event sponsor of the Circular Economy Summit is ING

The main sponsor of the Circular Economy Platform in 2025 is Szentkirályi

The highlighted sponsor is McDonald’s (Progress).
The supporter of BCSDH’s carbon-conscious events is Ayvens.

ESG has become part of everyday life for companies – we presented the results of the latest BCSDH ESG survey

Where are Hungarian companies headed in terms of sustainability? What benefits has ESG brought them so far? What are their expectations for the future?

We are pleased to say that the BCSDH’s 2025 ESG survey provides up-to-date answers to these frequently asked questions. The results were presented on November 11, 2025, at this year’s closing ESG working group meeting at the ONE headquarters, hosted by the 4iG Group. The participants were welcomed by Dr. Dóra Antal, ESG and sustainability expert at the 4iG Group.

In 2025, BCSDH once again conducted a comprehensive survey among its member companies, examining the integration of ESG into everyday corporate life and value chains, as well as their future expectations in the area of sustainability. A total of 77 companies from 15 industries participated in the survey. KPMG was the professional partner of the survey.

Ágnes Deme, senior manager at KPMG, presented the most important results of the survey. She said that 95% of the member companies that completed the survey agreed or strongly agreed that achieving sustainable operations is the goal, and that ESG activities and reporting tools are the means to achieve this. Integrating ESG considerations into business decisions brings benefits to companies, with SMEs reporting benefits mainly in the area of maintaining/strengthening business relationships, while large companies reported benefits in the area of better understanding and managing ESG risks.

The results of the survey will soon be available on the BCSDH and KPMG LinkedIn pages. The research summary can be downloaded here (in Hungarian).

Irén Márta, director of BCSDH, presented the section of the research on future expectations and plans to the audience. She emphasized that the majority of member companies had not postponed their sustainability efforts. Companies typically expanded their teams or brought in extra resources to continue their ESG activities in parallel with regulatory compliance.

The event concluded with small group discussions, where participants were able to delve deeper into the topics presented and share their best practices and dilemmas with each other.

Thanks to out sponsors!

 

Remote-control Transformer Station: New Network Hub for Increased Power Supply Stability

The E.ON Hungária Group has established a fully automated, remotely operated transformer station in Veszprémvarsány. The new 132/22 kV facility replaces the former 35/22 kV substation, thus significantly increasing the region’s network capacity, and the reliability and flexibility of the network. This advancement improves the power supply for approximately 16,000 residential customers and also enables the connection of 1,000 solar panel households to the grid. The new substation connects to the 64-kilometre transmission line section between Kisbér, Veszprémvarsány, Zirc, and Litér.

The new substation incorporates a modern, automated control system that ensures rapid fault detection, which not only provides customers with a more stable and predictable energy supply, but also reduces the risk of network disruptions and service outages. The new infrastructure will also facilitate the connection of additional industrial- and high-energy consumers to the grid in future.

The HUF 2.2 billion investment is part of the Danube InGrid project, a series of cross-border initiatives supported by E.ON and the European Union, which aims to strengthen the regional network and support the integration of renewable energy sources.

MFB is organizing ESG conference

MFB Hungarian Development Bank Private Limited Company will organize its ESG conference for the third time on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 (between 2:00 p.m. and 6.00 p.m.),to promote sustainability approaches and share knowledge, this time in collaboration with the Finance and Sustainability Section of the Hungarian Economic Association.

The main topic of the event is sustainability, the current issues, and effects of ESG regulations (Omnibus, EBA guidance, ESG Act, etc.) from the perspective of various actors in the economy (Central Bank, Ministry of Economy, financial institutions, borrower companies and companies involved in the preparation of sustainability reports or companies that are planning it later).

The first half of the conference will feature professional presentations, followed by a roundtable discussion with invited experts, partners, and clients. The event will close with a networking reception. The invitation with a detailed program will be sent to those interested shortly. The language of the conference is Hungarian

Shower of professional awards for SPAR Hungary: recognition in sustainability, retail and communications

In recent months, SPAR Hungary has garnered professional acclaim not only for its innovations in sustainability and retail, but also for outstanding achievements in communications. The company received a total of six prestigious industry awards, alongside two of its senior managers being ranked among the top professionals in their fields—further positive reinforcement of SPAR’s ongoing efforts.

“For us, industry awards are confirmation that we’re on the right track – that what we do matters to consumers as well. Whether it’s about the standards of our stores, our sustainability campaigns or technological innovations, we always aim to make shopping easier, more conscious and more sustainable. These awards are particularly valuable because they show that the industry views our consumer-focused efforts as exemplary,” said Márk Maczelka, head of communications at SPAR Hungary.

Retailer of the Year – Three prestigious awards

At the 2025 Retailer of the Year awards organised by Trade Magazine, SPAR received three key recognitions.  The INTERSPAR store in Székesfehérvár was named Hypermarket of the Year, praised for its outstanding customer experience and extensive product range. The INTERSPAR chain also earned the title of Hypermarket Chain of the Year, recognising its consistent high-quality service. In addition, SPAR supermarkets were awarded Supermarket Chain of the Year, a testament to their reliable, consumer-centric performance in everyday shopping.

Green Pledge – award for eco-conscious consumer education

SPAR’s Plastic-Free July campaign, run under the Green Pledge programme, showcased how sustainability and consumer education can go hand in hand. The multi-channel initiative encouraged shoppers to opt for reusable fruit and vegetable bags, bakery sacks, and water bottles, while prize draws and inspiring social media content raised awareness about conscious consumption.

Symbol of Sustainability – technological innovation to reduce plastic use

SPAR was also honoured with the 2025 Symbol of Sustainability award in the Technological Solution & Process category. The judging panel recognised innovations that support a circular economy and demonstrably reduce plastic use. SPAR’s new packaging solutions and responsible waste management practices not only offer eco-friendly alternatives but also bring tangible changes to customers’ everyday lives.

Food Industry Innovation Award – recognition for sustainable packaging

During the 82nd National Agriculture and Food Exhibition and Fair (OMÉK), SPAR Hungary received second prize in the Food Industry Innovation Awards, jointly presented by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Agrármarketing Centrum Nonprofit Ltd. The award recognised the introduction of flow-pack packaging technology at the Regnum Meat Processing Plant in Bicske.  This new solution, used for S-BUDGET 500g minced pork, uses 70% less plastic than traditional plastic tray packaging, while maintaining freshness and quality. In 2024 alone, this innovation enabled SPAR to save nearly 20 tonnes of plastic—an exemplary case of combining sustainability, technological advancement, and high-quality service for customers.

Communications and marketing – SPAR leaders among the best

In the 10th anniversary edition of Marketing&Média magazine’s Top 50 Marketing Leaders ranking, Károly Németh, SPAR Hungary’s Head of Marketing, was placed 22nd. In the magazine’s Top 50 PR Leaders list – compiled for the third time – Márk Maczelka, Head of Communications, achieved 12th place. These rankings demonstrate that SPAR’s marketing and communications efforts are not only delivering value to consumers and business partners but are also recognised as outstanding achievements within the professional community.

Joy to Give! – 1,800 children to start the school year with dignity

The school supply donation campaign Joy to Give! — a joint initiative by the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta and SPAR Hungary—has successfully concluded once again this year, with countless generous shoppers joining the nationwide effort.

During the in-store collection held between 21–24 August 2025, nearly 100,000 school supplies and educational items were donated at INTERSPAR stores. In addition, shoppers wishing to help donated over 1.8 million forints through the purchase of donation cards, available since 1 August. SPAR Hungary further contributed 1 million forints to the cause, which the Charity Service will use to purchase more school supplies.

The donations will be swiftly distributed at the beginning of September: through the national network of the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta, carefully prepared packages will reach 1,800 children in need, ensuring they can begin the school year fully equipped.

“Purchasing even the most basic school supplies can be a significant burden for the poorest families. With the Joy to Give! campaign, we are not just providing notebooks, pencils, or school bags—we are giving children a fair chance, so they don’t start the school year at a disadvantage. The support of volunteers, customers, and SPAR once again provided genuine help for thousands of children” emphasised Tamás Romhányi, Head of Communications at the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta.

“Every child deserves to start the school year with joy and a sense of security. It is touching to see how generously our customers support us year after year when it comes to helping families in difficult circumstances. We are proud to contribute to the September school start each year alongside the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta” said Márk Maczelka, Head of Communications at SPAR Hungary.

The results of the donation campaign and further details can be found at www.adniorom.hu.

Complex Charging Solutions for Business Fleets

Premium Infrastructure and Energy for Sustainable Business Transportation

Mercedes-Benz Vans and E.ON Hungária Group have launched a strategic partnership that gives customers purchasing light commercial vehicles access to discounted, customized electric charging- and integrated energy solutions. Their joint initiative aims to facilitate business customers’ transition to electromobility and contribute to the decarbonisation of the corporate sector in Central and Eastern Europe.

As part of the partnership covering four countries in the region—Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Romania—E.ON is providing Mercedes-Benz customers with a comprehensive e-mobility service package, from consulting and installation to operation and maintenance. Needs assessment and contract signing are carried out entirely digitally, taking into account individual energy requirements and site conditions.

As part of the collaboration, a total of 25 new public charging points will be installed at 16 Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Hungary. These have been rolled out continuously since December 2024 and are being integrated into the E.ON network. The charging and payment processes are simple and uniform, and a premium environment awaits customers at the dealerships.

The two companies share the goal of making the benefits of sustainable transport available to all businesses and supporting green business operations in the long term with integrated energy solutions and discounted electricity tariffs.

Business Council for Sustainable Development in Hungary
1118 Budapest, Ménesi street 9/a.

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