Strategic Focus: The Growing Importance Of A Coherent Sustainability Narrative

Executive Summary

In light of increasing ESG-related litigation, and rising greenwashing allegations, a growing number of businesses are harmonizing their ESG and sustainability aspirations, initiatives and messaging. Achieving this requires careful consideration not only of the content of a firm’s sustainability efforts, but of the way in which these efforts are communicated. Many organizations are struggling to simultaneously improve sustainability performance and convey the results of their efforts meaningfully. This report provides an overview of how businesses can authentically communicate their sustainability efforts, to build trust with stakeholders and enhance their reputation for responsible and ethical practices. Chief sustainability officers (CSOs), CSR leads and heads of brand, marketing and investor relations should use this report to understand the key challenges necessitating effective sustainability communication, as well as the ways in which they can navigate these within an evolving ESG and sustainability market.