MEPs and GLOBE EU members Sirpa Pietikäinen, Bruno Tobback, and Martin Hojsík on July 1 welcomed Peter Bakker (WBCSD) and a diverse group of experts and business representatives to discuss the conditions necessary for European industrial sectors to remain competitive while continuously improving their long-term sustainability.
The event featured presentations by Bee Group members Amcor, Dow, Ecolab, and Rockwool, who shared successful strategies for enhancing resource efficiency across the value chain. Following these presentations, funding specialists examined the structural changes required to facilitate investment in start-ups and provide the support these companies need to grow.
The third panel discussion was dedicated to exploring the role of digitalization and artificial intelligence, with insights from representatives of Deutsche Telekom, Google, Cisco, and Kyndryl.
Key suggestions for policy improvements to facilitate the green industrial transition in Europe included implementing better circular economy incentives, reforming electricity market design to promote renewable energy sources, and developing more effective funding mechanisms to support large-scale investments — highlighting that public funding alone is insufficient.
Additionally, participants called for harmonizing and simplifying regulations, especially concerning waste and secondary raw materials, to reduce business complexity and enable scalable circular solutions. They also stressed the importance of stable regulatory environments, long-term visions, and policies that balance clarity with substance to attract investments and support innovation in green technologies.
