The European Union has set 2050 as the goal to achieve carbon neutrality and increased the ambition for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions for this decade by proposing to reduce them by 55% by 2030. The next 10 years will therefore be decisive to revert the current trends and definitively changing the way we design and produce what we consume. Likewise, we cannot neglect our behaviour in the way we use goods and waste. The green transition is real.
That was the emphasis in the new Action Plan for Circular Economy, one of the main axes of the "Green Deal”, presented in 2020. Change, but to be more competitive in the new green economy. To be better prepared for the future, with a more protected environment, without endangering the European economy.
If the goal of decarbonisation is greater, so too is the effort required of companies in reforming processes, and of citizens in a more sustainable, conscious and responsible consumption, so that resources are kept in the economy for as long as possible. Moving from a linear system to a circular one is a complex and multidimensional transition, which will only succeed if embraced by all. This is the big challenge ahead of us – businesses and consumers – over the next decade.
Sonae already has a remarkable background of practices adopted, but the situation and the responsibility push us further, aware that if we capture the potential of circularity – and globally of sustainability – the impact will be positive for everyone. Also, because 2030 is ”around the corner”. Thus, we must act swiftly and be effective in our actions.
Leonor Sottomayor
Head of Public Affairs at SONAE
Member of the Board at Associação Smart Waste Portugal
Adapted from Smart Waste Portugal’s August 2021 newsletter
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