As the year draws to a close and the Bridges 5.0 project reflects on its journey over the past three years, it’s essential to pause and consider the current reframing of discussions on sustainable and human-centric company policymaking. It all started with the American Administration Trump 2.0 which, in collaboration with the Republican party, decide to try to abolish any regulation that obliges companies to become more sustainable, invest in green policies, and care for their personnel. The European Commission seems to keep its green policies alive, but a lot of changes are now being implemented to these policies under the heading of “administrative burden”. The Draghi message to invest more into innovation has been translated into the idea that any European rule blocks innovation.

Companies have changed their behaviour quite substantially over the past decades, thanks to regulation. Dutch industry shows dramatic reductions of chemical levels (phosphorous, nickel, zinc, cadmium, nitrogen and copper) in surface water in the Netherlands. For the first four chemicals, the stress on the environment has been reduced to less than one percent of pollution in 1990. Without regulation, we would still be in 1990. The agricultural sector in the Netherlands proves this. The pollution of surface waters by nitrogen and phosphorous can be attributed for more than half to the agricultural sector. Even today, the Farmers’ Party is trying to get more freedom to pollute. Such deregulation, if it happens, will be devastating for the Dutch environment. The idea that we need to break down what we have built up over the last decades is one of the most insensible ideas I have seen. Labelling sustainability initiatives and green regulations as mere “burdens” misses a crucial part of the bigger picture.

The phrase “don’t shoot the messenger” feels especially apt as we discuss the role of new rules, frameworks, and reporting requirements. If we need to have more innovation, let us learn from China, one of the most regulated states in the world. China has been able to develop itself into the leader in green technologies. Rules and innovation do not seem to be in contradiction. It is more about how to find ways to support companies in their change processes. How to find new ways to economic value? These green European policies were not conjured up to stifle growth or innovation. Rather, they reflect our collective response to pressing societal and environmental challenges. As indicated earlier, Dutch industry has been able to change. And this is the case in most EU countries.

The most forward-thinking organisations see regulatory changes as opportunities, not obstacles. They leverage new requirements to drive efficiency, strengthen stakeholder trust, and differentiate themselves in increasingly sustainability-conscious markets.

As we enter a new year, let’s reframe the conversation. Rather than directing frustration at the messengers—be they policymakers, auditors, or sustainability advocates—let’s focus on equipping organisations to adapt and thrive. Bridges 5.0 has delivered new approaches to the Learning and Teaching Factories. We are committed to supporting companies as they navigate these transitions, providing guidance, resources, and a platform for sharing best practices.

Progress is rarely easy, and sometimes the path forward requires reimagining what we consider a burden. With the right mindset and support, what once seemed an administrative hurdle can become a bridge to a more sustainable, resilient, and successful future.

Bridges 5.0 wishes you all the best in 2026!