The 2017 Sustainability Leaders Survey Results
GlobeScan and SustainAbility hosted a webinar yesterday, June 28, to discuss the results of The 2017 Sustainability Leaders Survey.
The Sustainability Leaders Survey is the largest and longest-running survey of its kind and has tracked expert opinions on sustainable development leadership for 20 years.
The discussion was lively and insightful. The five exceptional thought leaders shared insights, discussed survey findings and answered your questions on the current and future state of sustainability leadership:
- Mike Barry, Director of Sustainable Business (Plan A), Marks & Spencer
- Sue Garrard, SVP Sustainable Business Development & Communications, Unilever
- Joanna Yarrow, Head of Sustainable & Healthy Living, IKEA
- Rob CAmeron, Chief Executive, SustainAbility
- Chris Coulter, CEO, GlobeScan
Here are the main takeaways:
- The private sector, international financial institutions and governments are falling behind, though there is an overall improvement
- Unilever is by far the most recognized leader, followed by Patagonia, Interface, IKEA, Marks & Spencer, Natura, Tesla and Nestle
- The three most important issues are:
- Integrate sustainability into the business model
- Innovation
- Honestly, transparency and trust
- More than half of consumers (54% and growing) are already actively making purchase decisions based on the sustainability and values of the brand
- Investors are now also joining and voting with their wallets.
- Companies that will not integrate sustainability into their business model, focus on well-being and show that they are relevant by having a clear purpose that addresses global challenges – will not survive.
- Very important for brands to show their impact on communities and families.
- Very important for business leaders to become activists and take a personal stand on sustainability, and create coalitions beyond the boundaries of their own company.
Download the presentation slides
Download the full report
Read the press release
