Daniek Brinkhof
Consultant & Communications strategist
At 2BHonest, we use the Sustainability Legislative Scan to closely monitor regulations and translate laws and regulations into concrete steps tailored to your organization. Through our monthly updates, we help you look ahead, understand the impact, and act with confidence.
Sustainability Legislation in Flux: Focus on Implementation and Tightening
In May, the emphasis in Europe was on the implementation of laws and regulations. The focus is on fleshing out reporting requirements, with proposals for the CSRD standards (ESRS) and a voluntary standard for SMEs (VSME), based on the omnibus proposal. At the same time, the EU is tightening regulations on water quality and pollutants, and new guidelines for permitting under the Water Framework Directive have been issued. There are also indications of stricter enforcement of sustainability claims.
In the Netherlands, the focus is shifting further toward targeted steering through investments and standards. Instruments such as the Climate Fund and the VEKI program encourage industrial sustainability and electrification. Furthermore, the regulatory framework for industry is being tightened, including through higher CO₂ taxes and proposals for renewable hydrogen. In addition, policy is expanding to encompass consumption, supply chain practices, and social sustainability.
For organizations, this means that the focus is shifting from what might happen in the future to what needs to be prepared and implemented right now. Would you like to know what these developments mean for your organization and how you can respond to them strategically? Feel free to contact us. Together, we’ll ensure that you not only comply with the rules but also stay one step ahead.
You can download the scan below in Dutch or English.
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