GTC EN Articles

Today's world is facing challenges that require simultaneous technological innovation and attention to sustainability. The processes of digitalisation and decarbonisation, referred to as the twin transition, are becoming key elements of many companies' strategies. The examples of a recycling company in Macedonia and a telecommunications company in Montenegro show that such an approach not only makes it possible to meet global challenges, but also brings tangible economic and social benefits. The case study of these two companies was the subject of research and simulation workshops in the project 'GTC - Growth through transformational changes in the industrial sector influenced by the EU Green Deal and digitisation and proactive participation of workers in restructuring the changing working environment'. Its task was to exchange experiences between trade unions and employers in the context of a twin transition in the industrial sector in 7 partner countries, including Poland, Slovakia, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro, Romania and Spain.

Sustainability of a recycling company in Macedonia

A recycling company from Macedonia is an example of a company combining digitalisation and decarbonisation in a twin transformation. Since its inception in 2011, the company has gained a reputation as a sustainability leader in the region through innovative waste management processes and the implementation of advanced technologies. In addition to metal recycling, the company has started producing unique products such as rubber floor tiles and plastic benches.

The company's transformation is based on a digital energy consumption management system to optimise processes and reduce environmental impact. Employees were actively involved in planning the change, which contributed to its success. The company has also invested in staff training, which has enabled them to adapt to new technologies. Challenges, such as a shortage of skilled staff, have been mitigated through upskilling programmes.

The results of these measures include a reduction in CO2 emissions and the development of innovative products, which has enabled the company not only to achieve environmental efficiency, but also to become a competitive player in the market.

Teleworking and digitalisation in a telecommunications company in Montenegro
A Montenegrin telecommunications company, as part of a multinational corporation, is using digitalisation as a cornerstone of its operations. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the implementation of teleworking, which has become an important part of its operational functioning. Flexible remote working models make it possible to achieve a work-life balance for employees, while increasing productivity.

The company is currently planning to formalise teleworking rules and implement hybrid working as a permanent part of its organisational culture. The implementation of this model requires negotiations with trade unions on issues such as the protection of employees' rights, the settlement of overtime and the provision of ergonomic conditions for remote working.

Transformation also comes with challenges, such as increasing automation and associated job cuts. In response, the company and the unions are working together on retraining programmes to enable employees to adapt to new job requirements.

Success factors of the twin transition

1. Investment in technology - digitalisation and automation contribute to efficiency and cost reduction.
2. Employee engagement - active participation in the transformation process ensures acceptance and support for change.
3. Social dialogue - cooperation between management and trade unions supports equitable innovation.
4. Regulatory support - the use of support programmes and compliance with environmental regulations promote transformational goals.

Examples from Macedonia and Montenegro show that the right combination of technology, employee engagement and external support can lead to success in both sustainability and digitalisation.