Business encouraged by first draft Rio+20 outcome document

Welcoming the prominent role of business in the latest draft outcome document for this June’s UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), Business Action for Sustainable Development 2012 (BASD) stressed that private sector engagement in policy development and implementation is critical to advance global partnerships for sustainable development.

This week BASD, the major group coordinator for business and industry at Rio+20, joined the first official review meeting on the “Zero Draft” of the outcome document in New York. The group used the opportunity to highlight its desire to work with UN member states and other stakeholders in the lead-up to Rio+20 on a framework that enables business to maximize its potential in providing solutions for sustainable development.

“Business is a central player in green growth and sustainability, and we welcome the opportunity to engage substantively in moving ahead to Rio+20,” said Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman of the BASD. “It is imperative that governments provide clear policies and regulatory frameworks in order to support and advance the role of business in sustainability. We look forward to working with governments and other stakeholders to develop outcomes that encourage widespread adoption and implementation of sustainability principles by businesses of all sizes, sectors and regions.”

Mr Gopalakrishnan added: “The Zero Draft is far-reaching in scope and inclusive of all stakeholders while encompassing the numerous dimensions of the green economy and governance. We’re confident BASD will incorporate focused, specific business solutions into the draft that will make clear the frameworks necessary for a comprehensive answer to sustainability policy.”

Considering many companies are already putting sustainability at the forefront of their agendas, BASD is approaching Rio+20 at a key juncture for business and industry to be recognized as leaders in implementing sustainable practices. Smart policy that engages the private sector can bring about widespread, global action supporting sustainability, green growth and poverty eradication.

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