Federal Environment Ministry launches business initiative Making it Happen
In the run-up to the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development Rio+20, the Federal Environment Ministry has launched an initiative to support interested countries on their road to sustainable development with the expertise of renowned business corporations. Two German global players - Puma and Siemens, are the first to have joined the initiative Making it Happen.
"We want to make use of the experience of the private sector for capacity building and advising. I am delighted that these companies want to actively support the initiative Making it Happen so that interested countries will receive swift and effective assistance on their road to sustainable development" said Federal Environment Minister Peter Altmaier. The companies will organise workshops for local businesses in the countries concerned, and advise the governments on how they can create incentives for more innovative and sustainable management and ensure greater consideration of social issues. Other companies from Germany and abroad are welcome to join the initiative.
The Rio+20, which will take place in Rio de Janeiro from 20 to 22 June, will lay the foundations for a transition to a truly sustainable economy in all countries. One of the main goals is to ensure that interested countries receive competent advise and assistance for their most pressing problems on their road to sustainable development. The EU therefore calls for the United Nations, international finance institutions and bilateral donors to commit in Rio to providing all interested governments with tailor-made, country-specific support within a fixed timeframe, thus supporting the transition to an inclusive green economy. The private sector, too, should be involved in these activities.
Update of press release from 5 June 2012:
Deutsche Bank joins Making it Happen Initiative
Deutsche Bank is now actively supporting the Making it Happen business initiative. Following its establishment, the Federal Environment Ministry initiative has now gained support from another global player in its efforts to assist interested countries on their road to sustainable development.