Environmental commitment: Konecta continues its forest protection efforts in Italy with the Casentinesi Forest National Park

 In Italy, Konecta has chosen to invest in concrete actions supporting a protected area of exceptional natural richness, straddling the regions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, where nature remains the dominant force. Despite past human interventions, the area is now carefully managed to preserve its remarkable ecological balance.

In 2024, the following key initiatives were launched:

• Acquisition of 20 hectares of Douglas fir forest (Pseudotsuga menziesii) on the slopes of Mount Falterona, in the municipality of Pratovecchio Stia. This initiative, carried out by the Park Authority, contributes to protecting a valuable habitat and maintaining protected forest coverage.
• Co-funding of a research grant for young scientists specializing in pollinating insects, aiming to advance the study and conservation of these essential species and their habitats, critical to maintaining ecosystem balance.

These efforts reflect Konecta’s responsible approach, viewing sustainability not just as a strategic goal, but as a duty to future generations.

This year, the partnership between Konecta and the Park Authority will deepen through two major initiatives:

• Restoration of a 5-hectare chestnut grove owned by the Park Authority in the Eremo Nuovo – Bertesca area, within the municipality of Bagno di Romagna. This project will involve targeted interventions to preserve biodiversity, enhance CO₂ storage capacity, and recover traditional cultural practices.
• Commission a recent graduate to conduct research on high-altitude grasslands, focusing on the park’s floristic species and the “diet” of pollinating insects. The initiative will also include habitat restoration through cattle grazing, delivering both ecological and landscape benefits.

These projects bring wide-ranging advantages: they restore precious habitats recognized at the European level, improve the forests’ carbon sequestration capacity, and thus contribute to the fight against climate change. Moreover, such initiatives offer powerful opportunities for communication and public engagement due to their strong social visibility.

For modern businesses, sustainability has become a key pillar. It is no longer merely a matter of corporate social responsibility but a factor that shapes reputation, competitiveness, and the ability to attract talent and investment.

By investing in environmental projects like those led by Konecta in Italy, companies can:

• Demonstrate genuine commitment to both community and environment
• Contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Create shared value by generating positive impact for both the business and society
• Foster a culture of responsibility and belonging that employees can take pride in

In today’s global context, where sustainability is increasingly important to consumers, investors, and all stakeholders, companies are more motivated than ever to take an active, responsible role.

The Casentinesi Forest National Park is one of the most pristine natural areas in Europe. It preserves centuries-old forests, peaceful ponds home to non-invasive species, and protected wildlife such as deer, roe deer, wolves, and alpine newts. The Park is also rich in botanical treasures like wild pansies and offers immersive nature experiences through trails such as the “Path of the Sacred Forests”, fostering an authentic connection with the environment.

Konecta’s supported initiatives help preserve biodiversity, promote scientific research, and provide educational opportunities for young professionals. The involvement of a leading company in Business Process Outsourcing and digital services in environmental projects illustrates how innovation and responsibility can coexist and turn businesses into active agents of positive change.