ESG & Supply Chains in Europe: The New EU Due Diligence Duty

Introduction

Understanding the evolving landscape of ESG requirements is critical for businesses operating in or with Europe. This session will equip attendees with the knowledge to navigate these changes effectively.

The EU has introduced a new due diligence duty through the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (the Directive) which sets out a corporate due diligence duty for large companies to identify and address adverse human rights impacts (such as child labour) and environmental impacts (such as pollution) in their own operations, those of their subsidiaries and in their ‘chain(s) of activities’.

The session will go beyond discussing the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and its implications and will cover recent cases, including the judgments in Milieudefensie v Royal Dutch Shell and R. (on the application of World Uyghur Congress) v National Crime Agency [2024], highlighting the need for compliance.

Participants will leave with a clear understanding of how to implement the new due diligence obligations and enhance their organisational practices with reference to real cases, considering also that non-compliance can not only lead to significant legal repercussions but also to reputational damage. Practical advice and tips provided will include actionable strategies for integrating ESG considerations into a company’s supply chains and due diligence processes.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• Overview of the new EU due diligence requirements and their implications for businesses
• Key components of effective supply chain due diligence
• Strategies for assessing and mitigating risks in supply chains
• Best practices for ESG reporting and transparency in this context
• Understanding the role of stakeholders and how to engage them effectively
• Insights into legal liabilities associated with non-compliance through reference to case studies illustrating successful implementation of due diligence processes

This webinar was recorded on 21st January 2025

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