Jeroen Rijpkema, CEO of Triodos Bank: "At this critical moment for the citizens of the European Union, we believe that businesses have an urgent, shared responsibility with governments and civil society to contribute to a fairer, regenerative future. We urge the European Commission to uphold and strengthen the EU’s ambitions in supporting responsible businesses and achieving our collective environmental and social targets. Together, we can create a resilient economy that benefits both people and the planet."
The six businesses state that we are at a critical moment for the European Union as we navigate the multiple challenges of climate change, destruction of nature and the green transition. In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend of companies and countries backtracking on their sustainability goals. Some businesses have scaled back their commitments to reduce carbon emissions and invest in renewable energy, citing economic pressures and the need to prioritize short-term financial performance. Similarly, certain politicians have rolled back environmental regulations and policies aimed at combating climate change, often under the guise of promoting economic growth and job creation.
Ecosia, Natura, Oatly, Patagonia, Tony’s Chocolonely, and Triodos Bank believe business has an urgent, shared responsibility with governments and civil society to contribute to a fairer, regenerative future. They recognise the vital role that policy frameworks and regulatory guidance play in enabling businesses like ours to contribute positively to the green and social transition, in Europe and globally.
As the European Commission begins the new mandate, they advocate for:
- Ambitious regulation frameworks
- A European green industrial deal with circularity at its heart
- Effective implementation of the Environmental Crime Directive
- Promotion of sustainable food systems
- Strengthening Corporate Due Diligence and addressing forced labour