A conversation between Paolo Bartolozzi and Tito Livio Mongelli of Skål Europe
In recent years, the European Union has led a global push toward more sustainable, transparent, and accountable governance — not only for businesses but increasingly for associations and civil society organizations as well. Central to this shift is the concept of ESG: Environmental, Social, and Governance.
While many in Europe are already familiar with ESG due to EU legislation and sustainability regulations, members of international associations living outside the EU may find the concept relatively new. This article offers a clear and accessible introduction to ESG certification, with examples from respected global organizations. Through a dialogue between Paolo Bartolozzi, Vice President of Skål Europe, and Tito Livio Mongelli, President of Skal Italia and an expert in governance and institutional development, we explore why ESG matters — and how it can transform the way international networks function, grow, and earn trust.
Skål Europe: Paolo, you’ve been at the forefront of sustainability and reform conversations in international associations. Why is ESG certification the right move now?
Paolo Bartolozzi: Because credibility is everything. In a world where organizations — even volunteer-based ones — are expected to be transparent, responsible, and impactful, ESG certification provides the framework to prove that. ESG, which stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance, is not just a trendy label. It’s a structured, internationally accepted way of demonstrating accountability. Certification shows that your organization is not only sustainable in intent but also solid in governance and social values. And frankly, only ESG-certified organizations are taken seriously when applying for sponsorships or seeking involvement in global and continental policy-making arenas.
Skål Europe: And this applies to associations like ours?
Paolo Bartolozzi: Absolutely. Just look at other well-respected global associations. Junior Chamber International (JCI) has built its legitimacy around the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and works in close collaboration with the United Nations and UNESCO. They can do that because their systems are auditable and aligned with ESG frameworks. Rotary International is another example: their recognized governance structure has opened doors to collaboration with institutions like the World Health Organization. These partnerships aren’t possible without verifiable standards — and ESG certification provides just that.
Skål Europe: Tito Livio, from a governance point of view, why does this matter?
Tito Livio Mongelli: Because no reform lasts without structure. Governance is about how decisions are made, how money is managed, and how responsibility is distributed. ESG gives us a tested, transparent system — one that avoids improvisation and helps us restore trust where it’s been damaged. It enables both local autonomy and global coordination, something essential for international associations that operate across many cultures and legal systems.
Skål Europe: How complex or costly is the process?
Paolo Bartolozzi: It’s far more accessible than people imagine. B Corp, for instance — one of the best-known certifiers — charges around $1,000 per year for nonprofits in our category. That’s negligible when you consider the risk of being excluded from major funding opportunities, or the reputational damage caused by weak governance. And we’re not tied to B Corp — other certification bodies may offer similar standards and pricing. What’s important is the credibility and external validation that certification provides.
Tito Livio Mongelli: And let’s not forget the internal benefits. ESG certification aligns us with existing standards — there’s no need to reinvent the wheel. It reduces internal friction and endless debate, especially about financial transparency, ethical conduct, and accountability. Instead of spending energy on disputes, we can channel it into building value for our members.
Skål Europe: How does ESG certification impact innovation?
Paolo Bartolozzi: It’s a driver of innovation. Clarity and structure don’t slow you down — they give you a base to grow from. With ESG, you have a roadmap. You know where your gaps are and how to close them. And with that foundation, you can move faster, whether it’s in launching projects, securing partnerships, or even expanding your membership.
Tito Livio Mongelli: Ultimately, ESG transforms how we’re seen from the outside — and how we work on the inside. It brings us into the ecosystem of globally respected, accountable organizations. That’s not just good for image — it’s vital for the future.
