Luiss is renewing its commitment to sustainability by awarding prizes to the best Italian theses on the subject through the “10 theses for sustainability” initiative. Launched in partnership with the Symbola Foundation and Unioncamere, and with support from Deloitte Climate & Sustainability, the initiative engaged 2,062 students from 86 Italian universities, with a significant 62% female participation. The project, sponsored by the Ministry of University and Research, awarded ten outstanding theses that reflect an interdisciplinary approach aimed at building a more sustainable future.
Among the award-winning research topics, Eugenio Parigi's stands out. A graduate with a master's degree in Economics and Finance from Luiss, he tackled a highly relevant question: Do banks lend more to companies that pollute less? In his thesis, Parigi explores how environmental sustainability can influence financing decisions, demonstrating the importance of sustainability in the financial sector as well. His thesis was recognized as one of the best at the awards ceremony.

An academic achievement and a signal for the future

The ten winners, chosen from 100 finalists by a Scientific Committee chaired by Professor Paola Severino, President of the Luiss School of Law, and Professor Stefano Zamagni of the University of Bologna, come from top-tier institutions such as the Campus Bio-Medico in Rome, the Politecnico di Milano, and the Ca' Foscari University of Venice. The diversity of their educational backgrounds underscores a shared commitment to sustainable innovation. 

“Sustainability is our guiding star, an essential compass to steer technological development toward an inclusive and sustainable future. Luiss is at the heart of this challenge, thanks to programs like Strategic Management, which focuses on sustainability and the circular economy, and the Chair in AI & Climate Change, which brings together economics, law, and environmental science,” said Professor Paola Severino.

Ermete Realacci, President of the Symbola Foundation, praised the talent of the young participants, calling them “a valuable collective intelligence to tackle tomorrow’s challenges.” Andrea Prete, President of Unioncamere, also emphasized that young people bring new ideas and creativity to steer Italy toward a sustainable future.

A project that celebrates academic excellence and a commitment to sustainability

This initiative recognizes academic excellence and invests in Italy’s sustainable future, underscoring the central role of universities and young people in addressing economic and environmental challenges.