News

Minimum tax: Consistent implementation will be critical

Brussels, 22 December 2021 – the European Commission published the directive implementing the global rules on a minimum effective tax rate of 15%. The American Chamber of Commerce to the EU (AmCham EU) believes the directive should be fully aligned with the international agreement and consistently applied across the EU.

Providing consumers with clear sorting instructions for waste

Unilateral waste sorting instructions impede the free movement of packaged goods in the Single Market and work in opposition to recycling targets and circular economy objectives. In response to a rising number of national labelling initiatives, AmCham EU has signed a cross-industry statement calling for the harmonisation of frameworks across Member States. The statement outlines a comprehensive set of solutions to facilitate the establishment of an easy and understandable system for correct waste sorting at source.

Building blocks for a decarbonised EU

The European Commission recently released its revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive aimed at achieving large-scale decarbonisaton of the building sector by 2050. AmCham EU supports the Commission’s efforts and acknowledgement of the sector’s ability to be a key driver in lowering emissions to reach the EU’s climate objectives.  

New research shows all EU regions benefit from exports

National exports are an engine of regional output and employment growth, a new study has found. The research was carried out by leading economics consultancy LE Europe and commissioned by AmCham EU. All EU-27 regions benefitted from the growth in exports over the past decade, regardless of their GDP level. The economic analysis shows that on average a 1% increase in national exports leads to a 0.9% increase in local jobs and output. Stronger regional economic performance is driven by a host of factors, including manufacturing base, transport and communications infrastructure, innovation ecosystems and education level.

Promoting sustainable water use in industry

Industries can reduce the risk of shortages and conserve natural resources by optimising the use of water. Ecolab’s innovative cooling water technology improves the water cycle while bringing significant savings in costs, energy efficiency and emissions. Learn how water optimisation helps to fulfill their corporate sustainability commitments and boost the industries’ efficiency. 

Read more at The Green Way and join the conversation on Twitter with #EUGreenWay.  

Upcoming challenges facing the EU-US relationship

What are the upcoming challenges facing the EU-US relationship? That was the question asked to a panel moderated by Susan Danger, CEO, AmCham EU at the 32nd Greek Economic Summit organised by the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce. Panelists highlighted the importance of joint initiatives such as the Trade and Technology Council and the economic recovery for strengthening the transatlantic partnership.

Forging Europe’s recovery together: an EU Green Deal that works

As we  recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, we have an opportunity to put our economies on a trajectory that prioritises the health of the environment and stimulates sustainable production patterns. That's why the EU Green Deal needs to ensure that institutions create an enabling environment for businesses to innovate and boost green solutions. Natasa Sbrizaj (3M), Chair, Environment Committee, AmCham EU outlines how to deliver a science-based, effective and coherent climate policy framework.

Valuing resources to achieve climate neutrality

Cisco is committed to powering an inclusive future, and that starts with a liveable planet. By thinking about cutting waste, valuing resources and protecting biodiversity from the design, build and operationalisation of its products, the company is focused on a circularity strategy that is holistic in nature. Learn more about Cisco’s commitment to the circular economy from Wendy Mars, President, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Russia Region. 

Read more at The Green Way and join the conversation on Twitter with  #EUGreenWay. 

Everybody deserves a present

We invite you to join the Shoe Box Project, an initiative which collects non-perishable food items and small gifts and distributes them to the homeless and less fortunate across Belgium. Gather your friends and family, prepare your boxes and send us a picture before delivering them to a storage location of your choice before Friday, 10 December. Learn more on how to take part here.