Top executives from 100 Dutch companies are calling on the forming parties to opt for the 'economy of the future'. They call for structural investments in an economy that is not only competitive, but also sustainable and social. Sustainability is central to this.
"You don't hear the sound of companies that want to become more sustainable as often - but it is there. These entrepreneurs are consciously choosing the future and want The Hague to do the same," said Ankie van Wersch, CEO of Future Up. Future Up is the new name of MVO Nederland.
Signed by diverse companies
The companies make the call in an open letter signed by CEOs of 100 companies, including KPN, bol, Renewi, Dopper, Mediq, Strukton, RAI Amsterdam, Seepje, The Good Roll and ASN Bank. The companies represent a combined turnover of about EUR 43 billion and employ more than 125,000 people. They are companies from diverse sectors, including retail, chemicals, agrifood, textiles and services.
The parties are calling for investment in a competitive, sustainable and social economy. Three things, they say, are central to this:
- Preserving raw materials
- Collaborating with nature
- Commit to a level playing field
The companies argue that not opting for these steps is tantamount to opting for decline and an economy that falters and chafes. The parties warn that this offers citizens the prospect of stagnating prosperity, dependence on flawed regimes and loss of nature and well-being.
'Common sense'
"It often seems as if the business community does not want to become more sustainable, because of perceived costs or regulatory pressure. But a substantial number of companies do want to," says Van Wersch. "And no wonder: research by climate data firm CDP shows that 1 euro invested in sustainability saves as little as 46 euros in future losses or costs. The call comes primarily from common sense, only then from idealism or green ambition. Conserving resources, working with nature and going for a level playing field is the most natural thing in the world for these CEOs."
Erik-Jan Mares, CEO Zeeman textileSupers: "Together with partners, Zeeman is building circular chains. This requires perseverance, innovation, cooperation and a long-term course. Circularity is not yet taken for granted in the Dutch economy. Companies can make a difference here, provided they get good support. For instance, we sell second-hand clothes in a number of shops. We have to charge 21 per cent VAT on that, even though the VAT has already been paid by the previous owner. That is why we are calling for a VAT reduction, so that second-hand clothes become cheaper and more accessible."
'Thinking in generations'
Peer Swinkels, CEO Royal Swinkels: "As a family business, we at Royal Swinkels don't think in years, but in generations. We want to pass on a stronger, smarter and more sustainable company to the next generation. This requires courageous choices and strategic investments in energy transition, among other things. Long-term policy, circularity and a fair playing field are essential to achieve sustainable progress together."
Brechtje van den Beuken, co-CEO Bosch Beton: "Circular and sustainable construction requires consistent long-term policies. We now see that new laws and regulations follow each other in rapid succession and old, conflicting laws are not reviewed or abolished. This stifles implementation and takes priority away from what is really important. We therefore call on politicians: stop swabbing policy, choose practicability. Because without that course, our country will come to a standstill."
'Remain internationally competitive'
Van Wersch: "These 100 companies want to invest in sustainable growth, jobs and innovation. Too often, they still suffer from rules in favour of companies in the old economy. For instance, subsidies still go to fossil companies, while innovative, sustainable start-ups find it difficult to get capital for scaling up. Only if the government helps build an economy in which sustainable business is the norm can Dutch business remain internationally competitive."
The call can be found here.
