Launched in October 2025, the first ESG Boost cohort supports Brussels-based companies in their ESG transformation. A collective journey led by Beci and Pulsitive Impact, supported by experts.
We could talk about ESG for hours... or we could decide to really get started. That's exactly where ESG Boost comes in. A few weeks ago, a cohort of Brussels-based companies embarked on a six-month journey covering three areas: environment, social and governance. Led by Beci and Pulsitive Impact, the program brings together speakers with complementary expertise.
The why that guides the how
Among the pillars of the program, Pulsitive Impact focuses on aspects that are often decisive but still difficult for many companies to grasp: ESG risks and purpose. These are two key areas designed to link sustainability and economic models.
“Many companies still think that ESG is limited to climate or biodiversity, without measuring the concrete impacts on their business model,” observes Daphné Vlerick, founder of Pulsitive Impact. The workshop on ESG risks allows participants to put figures and benchmarks on these issues. Some companies are discovering, for example, that a shortage of raw materials could hit their sector within five to ten years.
“Many companies still think that ESG is limited to climate or biodiversity, without measuring the concrete impacts on their business model.”
Daphné Vlerick
Another highlight of the program is working on the company's purpose. “The workshop helps realign the company with its ‘why,’ beyond just profitability,” she explains. The exercise helps clarify direction, unite teams, and anchor strategic decisions over the long term.
The program progresses in stages, combining methodological input, collective reflection, and practical application. At the end of the program, companies can have their commitment recognized through Pulsitive.score certification, recognized by the Brussels Region for social and environmental excellence.
Carbon: making things feasible
The issue of carbon is naturally one of the first steps in the program. D-Carbonize helps companies understand their emissions and structure a realistic trajectory. “In ESG, carbon emissions analysis often plays a major role. And for good reason: that's often where it all starts,” notes Grégoire Talbot, co-founder and CEO of the company.
While large companies have largely integrated these issues, smaller organizations sometimes tend to put them off until later. "Some say it's not a priority, or that they'll see about it later. However, the climate context itself
An initial carbon assessment in just a few hours. This approach appeals to SMEs because it allows them to take action without disrupting their entire organization.
Above all, the support goes far beyond the environmental dimension alone. “Today, a carbon trajectory must also demonstrate that it creates value,” insists Grégoire Talbot. Reducing energy costs, eco-design, optimizing purchasing or suppliers: decarbonization then becomes a management tool, fully integrated into the strategy.
Dialogue and choice: ESG in practice
Starting in February, 21 Solutions will take over with two less visible but equally important themes: communication and purchasing. These are two angles that are often addressed late in the ESG process, according to Marcel Van Meesche, co-founder and General Manager of the company.
“Many companies are reluctant to communicate until they have finalized everything,” observes Dorothée Bernier, project manager. The fear of greenwashing sometimes pushes them into silence. “However, showing that you are on the right track is already a strong message to your stakeholders.”
“Many companies are reluctant to communicate until they have finalized everything.”
Dorothée Bernier
Communication is viewed here as a dialogue. Sharing a journey, choices, and difficulties too, helps to activate collective dynamics and means you are not moving forward alone. “It is often when we connect with others that solutions emerge,” she adds.
The same logic applies to purchasing. “We usually start with what is visible: energy, waste, premises. Purchasing comes later, even though it has a significant impact,” explains Marcel Van Meesche. However, integrating environmental and social criteria into the purchase of goods and services helps to structure sustainable practices that are less dependent on individuals and more robust over time.
For 21 Solutions, the strength of ESG Boost also lies in group dynamics. “Working alongside peers, discussing challenges, and sharing solutions helps to translate strategy into operational reality, business by business,” they conclude.
Join the next ESG Boost cohort to benefit from expert guidance and exchange ideas with your peers.