The DNSH (Do No Significant Harm) principle is a key requirement in the financing of projects with European funds. Its compliance is mandatory in several calls for proposals, including the Sectoral Data Spaces Program for the Digital Transformation of Strategic Productive Sectors.

This program seeks to foster data sharing through the creation of demonstrators and use cases in strategic sectors. To ensure the sustainability of the funded projects, it is necessary that each awarded initiative undergoes a DNSH validation process, ensuring that it does not generate negative impacts on the six environmental objectives defined by the EU.

DNSH validation in the ICT sector and data spaces

In the ICT sector, DNSH validation is particularly important due to the environmental impact associated with digitization. Factors such as energy consumption of data centers, efficiency in information processing or hardware management are key aspects in the evaluation of projects related to data spaces.

The entities accredited by ENAC for the evaluation of the DNSH principle apply methodologies based on European standards to analyze the sustainability of initiatives. This process involves verifying that projects comply with energy efficiency, circular economy and emissions reduction criteria, among others.

Relevance of DNSH validation in calls for proposals

For the beneficiaries of the Call for Sectoral Data Spaces, the validation of the DNSH principle is an essential requirement in the justification of grants. This process ensures the alignment of projects with the environmental commitments required by the EU and avoids problems in obtaining or maintaining funding.

Our experience in DNSH validation in the ICT sector has allowed us to develop specific approaches to assess the environmental impact of projects related to data sharing. As data spaces consolidate as a key infrastructure in the digital transformation, compliance with sustainability criteria will be an increasingly relevant aspect in the financing and regulation of the sector.

Our role as an ENAC accredited entity

In this context, our entity, accredited by the National Accreditation Entity (ENAC), offers validation services of compliance with the DNSH principle. We have a team of experts in environmental impact assessment and in the issuance of compliance reports that allow companies to demonstrate their alignment with the sustainability requirements demanded in the call for proposals.
Our validation process includes:

  • Technical analysis of the project in terms of its environmental impact and its compliance with European regulations.
  • Identification of possible non-compliance risks and mitigation proposals.
  • Issuance of the validation report in accordance with the criteria established in the applicable regulations.

Ensuring access to grants

For companies interested in accessing grants from the Sectoral Data Spaces Program, it is essential to address the validation of the DNSH principle from the initial phase of the project. Having a favorable report from an accredited entity such as ours not only facilitates regulatory compliance, but also minimizes risks and guarantees access to funds.
If your organization is preparing your proposal for this call for proposals, we can help you ensure that your project complies with the environmental requirements. Contact us for more information about our DNSH validation service.