Agenda

Twenty years have passed since the Earth summit in 1992 and the need to tackle complex environmental and social issues is now more pressing than ever. As world leaders gather in Rio to discuss food safety, water, energy, eradication of poverty and sustainable patterns for production and consumption, there is a unique opportunity to take stock and define the strategy and actions for sustainable development in the years to come. What progress has been made since 1992 and what have been the main challenges and gaps in implementation? What does Rio+20 need to achieve to ensure a renewed commitment to sustainable development? What tangible actions are needed to make sure that Rio+20 enables the transition to the green economy and better governance? What is the Brazilian Government action plan for the Conference and what are the key outcomes expected?

Leading corporations around the world are putting sustainability on their agendas, not only as a way of addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges, but also as a more integral component of their business strategy and a means to enhance revenue, margins and brand value. In this context, businesses have a great potential to help advance sustainable development on a global scale. What key contributions can the private sector make and what are the necessary conditions for corporate sustainability to thrive? What are the challenges and obstacles? What is the private sector framework for action at Rio+20 and beyond? What advances are expected in key issues such as responsible investment, financing of the green economy and reporting of environmental, social and governance matters?