The Value of ECOsophy as an Integrated Approach

During his career as an energy consultant, Riccardo Delmastro—Head of Energy at Solutions30 Italia and author of Manual of Vertical Borehole Geothermal Systems—has consistently relied on objective data to support energy-saving and production solutions. Yet, he observed that clients’ final decisions were not always based solely on numbers. Perceptions, opinions, and intangible factors often played a decisive role. 

In a 2007 meeting with colleagues and a client, a pivotal question emerged: Why is photovoltaic energy often preferred over geothermal, despite its economic and ecological limitations?  

This reflection led to the identification of three key components that influence corporate energy investment decisions: 

1. ECOnomy – Cost and return on investment 

1. ECOlogy – Environmental impact, energy savings, and emissions reduction 

1. ECOperception – The symbolic value and social acceptance of the investment 

The third factor, ECOperception, proved especially critical for publicly listed companies, where public opinion can significantly affect corporate value. From this insight, the concept of ECOsophy was born—an integrated approach to corporate decision-making that extends beyond energy to include manufacturing, communication, and design. 
Delmastro later discovered that the term ECOsophy had already been introduced in 1960 by philosopher Arne Næss in the context of deep ecology. Thinkers such as Félix Guattari and Raimon Panikkar further enriched the concept, incorporating social, mental, and philosophical dimensions. 

Over the years, Delmastro has led some of the most significant energy projects in Italy and Europe, working with companies such as Italcementi, Autogrill, Sitaf, and Giacomini. These experiences culminated in several publications, including: 

• GSHP, Geothermal with Vertical Boreholes (Geoenergia, 2009) 

• GSHP, Deep Boreholes – A Case History (Geoenergia, 2010), documenting the construction and testing of Italy’s deepest vertical geothermal probes at the Frejus Tunnel site 

• Manual of Vertical Borehole Geothermal Systems (Hoepli, 2011) 

Delmastro envisions ECOsophy as a guiding principle for corporate strategy—one that integrates economic, ecological, and perceptual dimensions. He advocates for its further exploration as a foundational theory, capable of encompassing disciplines such as marketing, design, and management, and hopes it will inspire economists and decision-makers alike.