Doing business within the limits of nature and society must become the norm, both in Belgium and within international value chains. Consider the fact that carbon emissions from supply chains are on average 11 times higher than those that occur directly “on-site”. It’s clear this is one of the most pressing sustainability challenges we face.

Belgium produces most of its consumer goods abroad. As a result, the environmental burden and risk of human rights violations – such as air pollution or extremely low wages – often end up elsewhere. This is reflected in our low score on the SDG Spillover Index.

Companies that proactively work to make their supply chains more sustainable or set up new, responsible chains deserve our wholehearted support. By investing in sustainable chains and sustainable trade relations, we not only boost our international credibility, but also the competitiveness of Belgian companies. The government can lead by example through socially responsible purchasing: sustainable public procurement is the catalyst we need for change.