Advancing the Strategic Role of Sustainability Leaders in Shaping a Competitive and Inclusive Europe 2030

Sustainability leaders are increasingly pivotal in aligning companies' business models to heightened competitiveness, sustainability, and inclusivity expectations.

As the European Union broadens its sustainability framework, mainstreaming sustainability practices previously driven by voluntary efforts, it is essential to support CSOs and equivalent functions in their efforts to future-proof their businesses, ensuring they remain competitive in light of new expectations, while simultaneously contributing to a sustainable and inclusive Europe 2030.

To this end, CSR Europe has launched the European Chief Sustainability Efforts (CSO) Network.

Why Engage with the European CSO Network?

1. Influence Policy and Practice: The European CSO Network offers a unique platform for dialogue with other CSOs/equivalents and the European Commission for the simplification and implementation of EU sustainability policies.
2. Collaborate and Innovate: This network provides a collaborative space for sharing best practices and strategies, helping you address common challenges and drive innovation in your company.
3. Stay Ahead: By joining, you’ll remain at the forefront of sustainability trends and regulatory changes, ensuring your company remains competitive and compliant.

The initiative has already received positive feedback from several Directorate-Generals and aligns with the recent political guidelines issued by President Von der Leyen for the new European Commission 2024-2029, which include simplifying business processes, unlocking the necessary financing for the Green, Digital, and Social Transitions, establishing a Union of Skills, enhancing Social Fairness, and building a Union of Equalities.

The CSO Network hosted its kick-off meeting on 25th June at the European Sustainable Industry Summit 2024 . The event saw participation from a wide array of companies, including Airbus SE, Amdocs, Antea Cement, ASD Europe, BAE Systems, BASF, BNP Paribas Fortis, Coca-Cola Europe, Czechoslovak Group, GasNet, Greenomy, Gruppo Unipol, HELLENiQ ENERGY Holdings S.A., Hoegh Autoliners, Iberdrola, Iveco Group, LAMDA Development S.A., Leonardo SPA, LKQ Corporation, Montea, Olgerdin, Pirelli, PPC Renewables S.M.S.A., PPC SA, Shell International, Société Générale, Solvay SA, Syensqo, TenCate Grass, Titan Cement Group, Toyota Industries Europe, Toyota Motor Europe.

What Comes Next? Join the online meeting on 19 September

Chief Sustainability Officers and equivalents of multinational companies are invited to participate in the upcoming European CSO Network online meeting , scheduled for 19 September at 15:00 CEST. Register here

At the event, participating CSOs will have the opportunity to learn more about:

• The direction taken by current members on the scope, reach, and impact of the CSO Network initiatives for 2025-2026.
• Members' expectations for the first in-person meeting with the new European Commission on EU Implementation and Simplification in Brussels, between November and December 2024.

For more information

Contact Jan Noterdaeme, [email protected] , CSR Europe Senior Advisor & Co-Founder