Q . THE COMPANIES THAT YOU ’ VE WORKED WITH , ARE THEY ON TRACK TO MEET GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY TARGETS ?
» Many companies I ’ ve worked with are committed to global sustainability targets , but are also facing difficult macroeconomic headwinds and challenges in turning this ambition into action . Even those who set ambitious targets are extending them . According to the recent EY Sustainable Value Study , the median target year for delivering on climate commitments has shifted from 2036 to 2050 in just 12 months . Despite these obstacles , it ’ s crucial for companies to intensify their transition planning . Evidence shows that those who do prioritise their sustainability commitments derive significant long term value – both commercial and societal . work within . We all need to act as individuals to make change possible , and consider how we can turn intentions into tangible actions – whether that ’ s travel , our energy , or shopping habits . At a much larger scale , business transformation will be critical , bringing people with you – inside and outside of the organisation . It challenges traditional ideas of how , in the past , one business could act alone to compete and lead .
Now , we need many more businesses to act for anyone to succeed . I ’ ve already seen how , over time , sustainability is increasingly influencing and informing decisions at work ; not just what we do , but how we innovate and rethink approaches , including in skills and the application of technology .
Q . MANY BELIEVE IN A TOP-DOWN APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY , WOULD YOU AGREE ?
» While not every organisation needs a dedicated Chief Sustainability Officer , leadership from the C-suite is critical to setting the tone and direction . It creates a collective responsibility and accountability for sustainability initiatives , possessing both understanding and executive-level influence to drive impactful results . In my experience , a holistic , equal responsibility model at board level – where each function has a clear understanding of their role and contribution , has a better chance of achieving tangible results encouraging all parts of an organisation to foster sustainable behaviours , encouraging both group and personal commitment which will be more likely to succeed in driving real change . sustainabilitymag . com 17