SIG unites with 58 companies to urge for continued commitment to the EU Green Deal

SIG, together with 58 other companies, has signed a statement urging the EU to ensure the continuation of the EU Green Deal and utilize existing environmental standards to strengthen European businesses while also serving the climate and nature.

The signatories are leaders in sustainable practices within a wide variety of sectors across Europe and represent over 800,000 employees and total revenue of more than €207 billion in 2023. This statement is an acknowledgement of the importance of strong EU-wide laws that provide a unified framework and protect the resilience of businesses at a time where economic losses due to extreme weather are worsening year after year.

“The combination of protecting nature, using renewable sources sustainably, and large-scale nature restoration can go hand in hand with sustainable economic growth in Europe.  Stronger common criteria and collaboration between Member States will help protect biodiversity, while levelling the playing field for companies and incentivising investment in nature-based solutions. It is vital that the EU works with the private sector to take transformative action that prioritises nature and supports European competitiveness. Legislation which fosters an increase in biodiversity and nature can support that.”, said José Matthijsse, President and General Manager Europe.

In the past few years, the EU achieved significant progress with the EU Green Deal. Attempts to roll back or dilute existing environmental and climate laws threaten to undermine the significant investments already made by businesses to align with the European Green Deal. Weakening regulations — whether through lowering standards, backtracking on international commitments, or reducing climate ambition — would erode the stability and predictability that companies depend on for strategic planning.

What European businesses need is a consistent regulatory framework, a level playing field, and a strong commitment to continuing Europe’s leadership in sustainable innovation. As we approach a critical juncture in the transition, continuing to invest in renewable energy and green technologies is not just an option, but an urgent necessity to propel us forward.

The stakes are high: maintaining environmental ambition and ensuring consistent, fair implementation are essential to ensure that the EU can nurture a transparent, competitive business environment while driving sustainable economic growth. Now more than ever, the EU must seize this opportunity to foster a transparent, future-proof business environment – or risk undermining both its climate goals and economic resilience.