Energy &
Environment

The green economy is a strategic priority in Europe and globally. It is the favoured solution for balancing environmental protection with energy security and industrial competitiveness. However, while these goals are taking shape, the best way to accomplish them is not yet agreed.

The EU’s 2020 climate and energy targets are being refined for a new 2030 focussed policy package, its carbon emissions trading scheme is being redrawn, and there is work ongoing to promote a circular economy in Europe that supports resource-efficient production and the recycling of materials. Ratification of the COP21 Paris agreement is likely to encourage Europe’s leadership and deeper commitment to these goals.

From a reputational stand-point, businesses in all sectors are increasingly expected to demonstrate their crucial contribution to a sustainable, decarbonised Europe – with ‘triple bottom line’ company audits the potential end-point of current trends.