IHK Offenbach's 'BLUE meets GREEN': Businesses Embrace Sustainability
On Monday, September 9, 2024, the Industry and Commerce Chamber (IHK) Offenbach am Main held its annual reception, themed 'BLUE meets GREEN'. Around 300 guests from business, politics, and society gathered to discuss sustainable business and the ecological transformation. IHK President Kirsten Schoder-Steinmueller opened the event, stressing the need for businesses to meet current needs without compromising future generations' livelihood.
IHK Managing Director Markus Weinbrenner summarized the event, stating that sustainable business is possible and economically beneficial. However, he emphasized the need for politics to ensure reliable framework conditions. Daniel Imhäuser of Blasius Schuster GmbH & Co. KG presented the 'Circle Hub' network, aiming to shorten transport routes and increase recycling rates in the construction and circular economy. He noted that regulations can drive innovation but should rely on market-based instruments and minimize bureaucratic hurdles.
Tina Teucher, a guest speaker, highlighted how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can benefit from sustainable strategies. She called for stronger political support, particularly through investments in education, research, and infrastructure. Georg Picard of Picard Lederwaren GmbH & Co. KG described promoting sustainability through targeted changes in global supply chains. The IHK Offenbach sees itself as a partner of the regional business in the sustainable transformation, actively supporting its members with consulting and service offerings.
The IHK Offenbach am Main's annual reception successfully brought together key stakeholders to discuss sustainable business and the ecological transformation. The event emphasized the importance of political support, innovative regulations, and market-based instruments. Local businesses were encouraged to engage in sustainability initiatives, with the IHK actively promoting economic innovation and sustainable digital infrastructure in the region.
