A senior executive at Swiss nutrition and bioscience company Dsm-Firmenich says corporations must continue engaging with policymakers on climate issues even as political divisions reshape the sustainability debate in the United States. Hugh Welsh, the company’s North American president and general counsel, has taken a visible role in promoting climate and sustainability discussions while navigating the shifting policy environment during President Donald Trump’s second administration.
Welsh, a longtime corporate leader with decades of experience in international business, believes companies cannot remain silent on environmental challenges despite political polarization. According to him, businesses should approach climate solutions in a way that resonates with policymakers across the political spectrum, particularly by emphasizing economic growth, innovation and job creation rather than focusing solely on climate terminology.
Dsm-Firmenich has set ambitious sustainability goals, including a target to achieve net-zero emissions across its operations and supply chain by 2045. The company, which operates globally in nutrition, health and bioscience sectors, is investing in technologies designed to reduce environmental impact while supporting food production and health innovation.
Welsh has been actively engaging with policymakers in Washington as part of this strategy. He has held multiple meetings with government officials and frequently travels to the U.S. capital to participate in policy discussions related to sustainability, nutrition and innovation. His approach reflects the company’s belief that cooperation between government and the private sector is essential to address large-scale environmental challenges.
One of the company’s notable climate-focused technologies is Bovaer, a feed supplement designed to reduce methane emissions produced by cattle. Methane released by livestock is considered a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the feed ingredient for lactating dairy cows in 2024, allowing the product to be commercially distributed in North America. Research suggests the supplement can reduce methane emissions from cattle by up to 30 percent.
Welsh argues that presenting environmental solutions as drivers of economic opportunity makes them more appealing to policymakers who prioritize industrial growth and consumer affordability. In his view, framing sustainability initiatives around conservation, innovation and productivity improvements can open more constructive policy conversations across different political perspectives.
Despite the polarized climate debate in the United States, Welsh believes companies should maintain consistent long-term strategies rather than shifting positions based on changes in political leadership. Governments and policies evolve over time, he said, but corporate commitments to sustainability should remain stable if they are rooted in genuine operational priorities rather than short-term public relations campaigns.
At the same time, Welsh acknowledges that corporate leaders who speak publicly on policy issues often face criticism from different sides of the political spectrum. Positions supporting climate policies or health initiatives can trigger backlash from stakeholders depending on the political climate. Nevertheless, he argues that business leaders have a responsibility to advocate for policies that align with scientific evidence and long-term economic stability.
Welsh also encourages multinational companies to focus on policy engagement rather than partisan politics. While businesses may collaborate with governments to shape regulations and innovation strategies, he believes companies should avoid direct involvement in party politics in order to maintain credibility and independence.
As global companies continue to integrate sustainability into their long-term business strategies, leaders like Welsh say constructive dialogue between corporations and governments will remain essential for addressing challenges related to climate change, food security and public health.