Portugal Has the Potential to Lead Europe in Sustainable Industrial Production, Study Finds

Portugal could position itself as a European leader in sustainable industrial production if it succeeds in turning its investment in the energy transition into a clear competitive advantage in global markets, according to a new study by NOVA School of Business and Economics (NOVA SBE).

The study, “Green Industrial Opportunity in Portugal”, finds that adopting credible environmental certification systems across key industrial sectors could generate a potential 0.8% increase in national GDP (€9.6 billion) and create around 49,000 jobs, equivalent to 1% of total employment.

In an increasingly regulated global environment — with growing sustainability demands from consumers and large retailers — the research highlights certification as a decisive factor, particularly for hard-to-abate industries such as steel and glass. Without recognition by end customers, the study warns, decarbonisation risks being seen merely as a cost rather than a source of value.

Retail-driven demand for certified sustainability

The research team, led by João Duarte, Associate Professor at NOVA SBE, analysed sales data from major international retailers. Products awarded Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly label recorded an average 13% increase in sales in the weeks following certification, while IKEA products with explicit claims on recycled materials achieved an average 33% price premium.

“These results confirm that consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products — as long as sustainability claims are credible and verifiable,” said João Duarte. “Certification is what allows industry to capture that value.”

From transition to competitiveness

Thomas Carrier, CEO of REGA ENERGY, which supported the study, said Portugal is well placed to seize this opportunity. “With a strong industrial base, a high share of renewable energy and an international business culture, Portugal can turn the climate transition into a source of competitiveness — making Made in Portugal synonymous with Made Sustainable.”

Public presentation at NOVA SBE

The study was publicly presented at NOVA SBE, with opening remarks from AICEP and former Economy Minister Pedro Siza Vieira, followed by a panel discussion with representatives from retail, biofuels and energy sectors. Speakers stressed the need for credible certification frameworks and a coordinated strategy to strengthen Portugal’s international positioning as a sustainable manufacturing country.

The Executive Summary of the study is available online here.