Strategic Focus: Understanding ESG And Sustainability Regulations In The UK

Executive Summary

Sustainability is an important political and cultural topic in the UK. The country is increasingly exposed to sustainability pressures, such as biodiversity loss, natural resource scarcity and climate change. However, the green transition also has the potential to drive employment and economic growth across the country. Accordingly, the UK has a mature regulatory environment for sustainability, notably becoming the first major economy to enshrine a 2050 net zero emissions target in law. Since leaving the EU in 2020, the UK has introduced new policies and regulations in areas such as corporate sustainability reporting, sustainable finance, deforestation, carbon tariffs and sustainable agriculture. This report provides executives with an overview of recent shifts in the UK’s sustainability landscape and the actions they can take to best prepare for these changes.