According to Deloitte, the global economy could gain $43 trillion over the next 50 years if businesses pursue sustainable activities. Inaction could cost the world $178 trillion in the same timeframe.
While the cost of investing in sustainability is often cited as a barrier, the cost of inaction is even greater. In a recent study, IBM Institute for Business Value and the Consumer Goods Forum surveyed more than 1,800 industry executives across 23 countries to understand how they’re balancing sustainability with operational goals. Through their research, they discovered that leaders no longer view operations and sustainability initiatives as separate. In fact, three out of five say they are purposefully aligning sustainability with operational goals to optimise investments and effort.