Large French companies leading the ecological transition

By continuously improving their environmental, climate, and energy performance through the development of innovative production models and technological solutions, large French companies, with a strong international presence, are playing a leading role in the ecological transition of the global economy. Their commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, accelerating the adoption of circular economy practices, and preserving biodiversity demonstrates the central nature of sustainable development in their strategies.

With regard to climate-specific issues, L’Afep supports the Paris Climate Agreement and the European Union’s objective of climate neutrality by 2050 while emphasizing that achieving these climate targets requires improving the competitiveness of French and European companies, particularly in accordance with the proposals of the “Draghi Report”. L’Afep believes that the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) is a central and effective economic instrument of the European climate policy, as it enables the optimization of emission reduction costs. Its development towards 2030, 2040 and 2050 must also take competitiveness issues into account, including through an effective Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and the continuation of support measures for companies most exposed to international competition.

L’Afep, a catalyst for concrete commitments from companies

L’Afep drives collective action and brings together the voluntary commitments of large companies in the area of ecological transition. It also develops initiatives to mobilize businesses in support of SMEs and young people.

• Ambition4Climate: specific projects implemented by large companies in various sectors to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions throughout their value chains.
• Ambition4Circularity: concrete commitments by large companies to implement circular economy principles within their production models, commitments which are regularly monitored.
• act4nature international: corporate actions in favor of biodiversity. The approach is unique on the global scale as projects are validated only after a convergent analysis from multiple stakeholders (business associations, environmental associations, scientific partners, public bodies).
• TOP AFEP: Held annually, this event honors SME and mid-cap startups,  showcasing France’s territories, innovation, and ecological transition. Entrepreneurs find there a unique opportunity to present their development projects directly to leaders of major companies.
• Top Jeunes: L’Afep offers high school students the opportunity to explore careers in large companies and find their areas of professional interest by meeting with companies and speaking directly with their managers. This event is organized in partnership with the National Education system.