B Lab Switzerland Annual Report 2022

Our activities in 2022 Policy change: Accountability for a Just Transition

As a not-for-profit network, B Lab advocates significant legal change in corporate responsibility and social and environmental impact. In particular, B Lab advocates the implementation of political and governmental action on changing economic systems, and for a global shift from shareholder primacy to stakeholder governance. The ‘Accountability for a Just Transition’ project, launched in November 2022 by B Lab Switzerland with legal experts, aims to identify and address gaps in Swiss law that prevent purpose- driven businesses from being recognized and supported. In 2022, we conducted extensive research, including publishing a comparative law report in partnership with the University of Geneva and UNIL. Additionally, we began developing a new legal framework to clarify businesses’ accountability in fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all stakeholders and the planet, with the support of legal and public policy experts. We plan to present this proposal in 2023.

What are purpose-driven com- panies ? Purpose-driven companies play a key role in facilitating a just transition towards an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy. These companies set themselves apart by: • Upholding high social, environmental, and community standards. • Emphasizing the goal of generating benefits for society at large. • Committing to increased levels of transparency. • Expanding the fiduciary responsibility of managers to include economic, social, and environmental outcomes.

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