Denys moves from an abstract concept to a clear sustainability framework

Turning sustainability ambitions into a clear strategic framework

Denys is an international, multidisciplinary construction company active in complex infrastructure projects, including tunnels, railways, water and energy networks, high-voltage cables and large-scale renovation projects. Through its work in district heating and cooling, carbon capture and storage, and hydrogen infrastructure, the company plays an important role in the energy transition and other socially relevant projects.

Despite its strong commitment to sustainable engineering, Denys faced growing pressure from clients, governments and financial institutions to demonstrate its environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance more transparently. At the same time, the company needed to prepare for CSRD reporting requirements, which will apply from 2027 onwards.

In parallel, Denys was securing a sustainability-linked loan, making reliable KPI monitoring and reporting essential. The challenge was not a lack of sustainability initiatives, but a lack of structure. Numerous activities were already underway across the organisation, yet there was no overarching sustainability framework, no clear strategic narrative and limited alignment between business objectives, reporting requirements and stakeholder expectations.

Building a solid foundation for sustainable growth

To create a company-wide sustainability framework, Encon guided Denys through its Profitable Sustainability Framework. The objective was to bring structure, clarity and strategic direction to the organisation’s sustainability efforts.

The process began with ambition setting and strategic alignment. Together, we defined what sustainability means for Denys, which value the company aims to create for both its business and stakeholders, and how sustainability can support long-term growth.

Next, we developed a CSRD-ready sustainability framework. This included a stakeholder analysis, a double materiality assessment and the prioritisation of the most relevant ESG topics. The resulting framework was structured around the key CSRD pillars—Climate Change (E1), Own Workforce (S1) and Business Conduct (G1)—and translated into themes that were specifically relevant to Denys and its operations.

We then mapped existing data sources and identified future reporting requirements. This provided clear insight into which information was already available, which gaps still existed and how future reporting processes should be organised. The outcome not only supports future CSRD compliance but also enables accurate monitoring of the company’s sustainability-linked financing commitments.

Building on this foundation, all existing and planned sustainability initiatives were assessed based on their relevance, impact and strategic value. This resulted in a prioritised action plan and a practical roadmap containing clear responsibilities, timelines, KPIs and reporting structures.

As a result, Denys now has a concrete and actionable sustainability plan that provides direction across the organisation and creates confidence for future decision-making.

Ready for CSRD and supported across the organisation

The project led to a significant shift in how sustainability is managed within Denys. What was once perceived as a broad and complex topic is now supported by a clear strategic framework that guides decision-making throughout the organisation.

Key outcomes include:

• A clear and CSRD-ready sustainability framework that can serve as the foundation for future sustainability reporting.
• Strong internal alignment and support, with teams understanding both the rationale behind sustainability initiatives and their contribution to the wider strategy.
• A concrete roadmap and KPI structure that support both CSRD readiness and sustainability-linked financing requirements.
• Clear visibility into existing strengths, risks and opportunities for further improvement.
• Credible and well-substantiated communication towards clients, public authorities, financial institutions and other stakeholders.

With a clear strategy, robust governance structure and defined reporting processes in place, Denys is now well positioned to meet future regulatory requirements and continue strengthening its role as a sustainable infrastructure partner.