"We are at the beginning of a new economic reality — under construction by businesses that find value in the connection between people, planet, profit and innovation. A new economy requires a dramatic shift in behavior, business practices and attitude. It also requires new market thinking to drive sustainable industry expertise and a wider market adoption of sustainable practices, purchases and innovation."

The Renewed EU Sustainable Development Strategy was adopted by the European Council in June 2006. It is an overarching strategy for all EU policies which sets out how we can meet the needs of present generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. The Sustainable Development Strategy deals in an integrated way with economic, environmental and social issues and lists the following seven key challenges: