Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030, represented by Executive Director and Secretary General, Iris Van der Veken, participated in an enlightening discussion with CIBJO President, Gaetano Cavalieri at VicenzaOro in September. The event provided a dynamic platform for industry leaders to share knowledge and collaborate towards a sustainable future for the watch and jewellery sector.

Ms. Van der Veken expressed her appreciation for the warm welcome and meaningful discussions held with Dr. Cavalieri and the World Jewellery Confederation – CIBJO. These engagements underscored the importance of collective action on the 2030 agenda, a vital framework for addressing humanity’s highest aspirations.

While recognising these collaborative strides, Ms. Van der Veken emphasized the collective responsibility to ensure the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Halfway to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development deadline, we must acknowledge that we are leaving more than half the world behind,” she noted. The SDG Progress Report shows that just 12 percent of the Sustainable Development Goal targets are on track, while the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate crises, and inequalities loom large.

As an industry of beauty and emotions, the Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 recognises its unique opportunity and responsibility to lead the way towards human dignity for all. It remains committed to harnessing these insights and partnerships forged at VicenzaOro to drive sustainable change within the industry.