"Safeguarding the EU Sustainability Framework", 23 June 2025

To the Institutions and Governments of the European Union,

The recent EU regulatory package on sustainability (Omnibus I), aimed at simplifying rules and boosting the competitiveness of the European economy, risks dismantling the regulatory framework on sustainability that has been carefully built over the years. The removal or postponement of regulations that have been developed through a broad consensus, and which form the foundation of the transition to a more sustainable and resilient economy, is a deeply worrying ‘backward step’.

We understand and share the concern that excessive bureaucratic and regulatory demands can impact the internal operations of European companies. That is why we support efforts to reduce and streamline these demands. However, we believe it is essential to uphold certain nonnegotiable principles and political commitments that have established the European Union as a global leader in social and environmental matters – principles that are now more crucial than ever for the Union’s cohesion and the strengthening of its global influence.

1. We recall that the transition toward a fairer and more sustainable economy cannot wait. The impacts of climate change are already being felt in ecosystems and societies around the world, bringing significant economic costs and social challenges. These effects must be addressed urgently and in line with the scenarios presented by the scientific community. Achieving decarbonisation targets will require transformative changes in production models, supported by public policies that promote transparency and create clear incentives – and disincentives – for market actors.

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Agreeing on a gradual implementation of these principles with companies, or creating the necessary support mechanisms, is reasonable. However, upholding the highest standards of legislative quality, robustness, alignment with relevant international standards and clarity remains imperative for achieving policy objectives and reinforcing the EU's legislative excellence. Abandoning the regulatory progress made in social and environmental areas would be inconsistent and would undermine trust in European institutions.

For all these reasons, and to achieve the strategic goal of a sustainable and prosperous economy, we urge the EU to send clear signals to the market so that economic actors accelerate decarbonisation, enhance the