Many companies, however, are uncertain as to how best to go about improving their sustainability profile and deriving value from the process. A “fig-leaf” approach focused on initiatives that provide “green” credentials is no longer enough to show commitment to the sustainability agenda. Oliver Wyman’s research suggests that companies that take an active leadership position to harness the trends driving sustainability – rather than reactively implementing sustainability in response to regulation and public pressure – will reap the benefits of a new source of competitive advantage and long-term growth.
Major Sustainability Trends
There are a number of trends that are driving industries to establish more sustainable organizations, ranging from resource scarcity and expanding regulation, to increased investor and consumer focus on sustainability. The impact of these trends will vary by type of business and industry, but they are ultimately unavoidable and relevant for consideration by all business leaders.