Rio +20 conclusion: the key role of the private sector

Despite the best efforts of the European Union to reach an ambitious agreement, policy makers in Rio disappointed those hoping for more concerted action. Civil society lamented the absence of several heads of State and the weakness of the agreements reached, with few targets and no timetable. It is now up to the private sector to implement initiatives that help to save the planet by adopting sustainable practices.

In its capacity as an association of producers and import-exporters, COLEACP has already taken this message on board, and is doing everything it can to encourage the private sector to take on this challenge.

Nothing will be achieved, however, without the cooperation of the public sector, governments, NGOs and international donors. More than ever, we are working together to ensure that environment and development go hand in hand.