Sustainability challenges are similar across regions, yet each country faces unique issues, distinct market perspectives, and its own socio-economic context. Whilst Drive Sustainability has a global strategy, it is also aware that long lasting impact, meaningful actions and the best solutions should be also developed at country or regional level engaging key local stakeholders on a regular basis.
In 2017, Drive Sustainability set up a local network in China – Drive Sustainability China (DS China) – in partnership with GoldenBee CSR Consulting as its local facilitator.
The aim of this network is to translate Drive Sustainability’s global strategy and tools at local level, enhance alignment and capacity building for sustainability across the industry, engage stakeholders and monitor, identify, and work together on local sustainability trends and issues. Current DS China members include BMW, Geely, JLR, Mercedes Benz, Scania, Volvo Cars and Volvo Group.
As part of DS China’s initiatives, Stefan Crets, Executive Director of CSR Europe, took part in two important automotive industry events organized in China this year.
China International New Energy Expo 2024 (CLNB)
The CLNB stands as one of China’s premier industry gatherings, bringing together government officials, corporate leaders, scientists and other key global stakeholders. Its 9th edition held in May revolved around the theme of “Inspiring Dual Carbon and Greening the Future” with a main forum dedicated to “Navigating the Corporate Sustainability Landscape – Increasing EU Demands in Sustainability”. Stefan Crets, Executive Director at CSR Europe, was among the distinguished speakers highlighting the importance of advancing towards more sustainable supply chains, using the evolving European legislation as a framework and benchmark.
China Association of Automotive Manufacturers (CAAM) 2024
The CAAM 2024 China Automotive Forum – China’s main Chinese automotive industry event – was held last July in Shanghai gathering global key stakeholders of the industry.
On behalf of Drive Sustainability, Crets’ keynote speech gravitated around the collaborative efforts of automotive companies within Drive Sustainability to enhance sustainability across the supply chain; rising regulatory expectations for the industry such as the EU Deforestation Regulation, the EU Forced Labor Regulation, and the EU Batteries Regulation; and the importance of shared standards and tools to enhance sustainability performance worldwide. Stefan Crets also met with DS China local members to discuss the Drive Sustainability strategy and accomplishments, the impact of the regulatory landscape to the industry and DS activities, and the need to continue working closely together to ensure alignment and compliance.
17th OECD Forum on Responsible Minerals Supply Chains
At the 17th OECD Forum on Responsible Minerals Supply Chains, Drive Sustainability organized a partner session in collaboration with the China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals and Chemicals Importers and Exporters (CCCMC) and the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI). The Partner Session titled “Implementing the EU Battery Regulation: Opportunities and Challenges“ brought together key industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss the implementation of the EU Battery Regulation (EUBR), highlighting the importance of cross-border collaboration in meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring responsible sourcing in the critical minerals supply chain.
Drive Sustainability’s global role involves continuously strengthening and expanding its support and collaboration with Chinese OEMs and stakeholders, further solidifying the international reach of its mission. Stay updated with our upcoming events here.
For more information on DS China, please reach out to Drive Sustainability: info@drivesustainability.org or Catalina Fernandez Silva, Senior Project Manager.
GoldenBee CSR Consulting, founded in 2003, is one of the first professional organizations to embrace social responsibility and sustainable development in China. CSR Europe works already more than 20 years together with GoldenBee. As an advocate, communicator, promoter and pioneer of social responsibility in China, GoldenBee CSR Consulting takes the lead in researching, consulting, training and responsible brand building services; Based on rich practical and research experience, GoldenBee CSR Consulting proposes and advocates “Responsibility Competitiveness” philosophy, continuously provides high quality CSR consulting services to clients, develops innovative management patterns together with clients to help them transform into sustainable enterprises meeting future challenges.