In connection with the discussion about the social responsibility of companies, one now comes across a large number of terms, such as “sustainability”, “environmental, social, governance” (ESG) or “corporate social responsibility (CSR)”. In recent years, Austrian and, above all, European legislators have issued extensive new regulations, directives and laws in the field of sustainability law, and many regulations are about to enter into force at European level. Of particular note is the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), which will oblige numerous companies in Austria to identify risks of human rights violations and environmental destruction along the value chain and to take countermeasures.

In Germany, the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act has been in force since 1 January 2023, which already affects many Austrian companies, at least indirectly.

The lawyers at wkk law advise companies with regard to the obligations arising from the CSDDD in the area of supply chain due diligence obligations and with regard to the requirements to be observed under the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act. In particular, we advise both national companies and international groups on the proper preparation and observance of the new regulations in the area of supply chain compliance.

Contact person: Felix Ruhmannseder