Insights and inspiration for project professionals

Sustainability: a buzzword?

In 2025, in my role as programme manager, I worked closely with the regulatory team of a manufacturing company. One of the core responsibilities of experts in the team is Regulatory Intelligence. They monitor regulatory changes, analyse whether a new law is applicable to the company, assess the impact on the business, and trigger the implementation of strategic actions. The goal is to provide safe and effective products, gain a competitive advantage, secure market access, and avoid penalties.

The landscape is quite complex. In Europe, legislation applies at EU level, but additional regulations may apply at country level. In the USA, the scenario is even more complex. Regulatory intelligence requires significant effort. Experts filter all regulations and identify what applies specifically to the business.

During our conversations, the word ‘Sustainability’ frequently emerged, for example when discussing raw materials, transparency in ingredient lists, and supplier management. All departments in the organization were impacted.

What does Green Project Management mean?

As an active member of PMI since 2006, I regularly attend major events and support as a volunteer. In 2025, during the European Summit in Barcelona, the Project Management Institute (PMI) and Green Project Management (GPM) announced their partnership. Having seen how sustainability is increasingly central to business, I was enthusiastic about this collaboration and eager to deepen my understanding.

During the summit, I attended several sessions addressing sustainability from different perspectives. This inspired me to learn more about GPM, its certification, and the methodology behind it.

Green Project Management embeds sustainable practices in all project phases, from initiation to closure, and it is applicable to all types of projects. I initially expected a methodology; instead, I discovered much more—a new mindset.

With a focus on achieving sustainability for our planet, Green Project Management emphasizes the evolution of the project management profession. It adds a meaningful and powerful dimension to the way we work and reshapes the definition of project success. It has been a true eye-opener. It empowers us to contribute to more sustainable businesses, educate stakeholders, and influence important decisions to implement green practices.

It was also a valuable opportunity to explore the 17 Sustainable Development Goals defined by the United Nations. Sustainability is often associated primarily with climate change, environmental protection, or waste management. However, when examining the broader picture, it clearly encompasses a wide range of practices and considerations. The more I learned, the stronger my interest became. I entered a positive learning loop.

Why a GPM-b certification?

This is a question I often receive since becoming certified. Personally, I believe that succeeding in our profession requires both formal education and hands-on experience. To do the right thing, it is crucial to know what to do. Sometimes we practise first and later validate our knowledge through formal education; other times, we learn the fundamentals before applying them in real-world situations.

My journey with PMI began in 2006, when I was managing my first large project and wanted to strengthen my knowledge. Since obtaining my Project Management Professional certification in 2007, I have consistently applied PMI methodologies, tailoring them to create value for my clients. My connection with PMI has remained strong ever since.

Driven by a passion for continuous learning, I have expanded my competencies year after year, focusing on areas such as risk management, mentoring, and teamwork.

After transitioning to the role of programme manager, pursuing the Program Management Professional certification felt like a natural next step, which I obtained in 2024. The knowledge gained—particularly in stakeholder engagement and strategic planning—enabled me to focus on benefit realization, align projects with organizational goals, and optimize resource allocation.

The methodologies and skills acquired over the years have been essential in leading complex initiatives successfully and enhancing the project management capabilities of my teammates.

Since previous certifications helped me grow professionally and deliver greater value, pursuing a similar path in sustainability felt like a logical evolution.

This time, however, the professional challenge was also supported by a strong personal commitment. Can we contribute to such an important goal—a more sustainable world—by strengthening our skills and expanding our perspective?

To prepare for the GPM-b exam, I used the bundle materials proposed by PMI and studied several GPM publications. I practised with an exam simulator, and in October 2025 I successfully passed the exam and obtained my certification.

What next?

The GPM-b certification marks the beginning of a new journey. I firmly believe that we have a responsibility, both as individuals and as professionals, to act sustainably in our private and professional lives.

As project and programme managers, we can play an important role and generate positive impact, regardless of the nature of the project or programme. I look forward to measuring the tangible impact of my contribution as a sustainable project professional over the coming year.

There is a African proverb: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.’ This is particularly true when striving for a sustainable world.

That is why I have decided to take an active role within the PMI Belgium Chapter, joining the Professional Development team. I am grateful and enthusiastic to serve as Sustainability Lead for the chapter, on a voluntary basis, since January 2026.

I warmly invite anyone interested in sustainability to stay tuned, follow the PMI Belgium Chapter page, and seize the opportunity to strengthen your project management skills while being part of a community committed to meaningful impact.

 

With warm regards,

 

Annamaria De Sio
Sustainability Lead, PMI Belgium Chapter