This report by WBCSD and ERM explores how companies can navigate and capitalize on the accelerating sustainability transformation. Drawing insights from over 130 global business leaders, it identifies the barriers preventing decisive action and offers a practical framework to help organizations shift from ambition to execution. The central message: sustainability is not just a risk to manage but a commercial opportunity to seize.
Key Components
The report introduces a five-part framework for embedding sustainability into business strategy:
- FACE IT – Leadership & Governance: Elevate sustainability in executive decision=making and governance structures.
- MAP IT – Strategy & Planning: Integrate sustainability into strategic cycles and operational decisions.
- DO IT – Progress & Commercialization: Use sustainability as a driver of innovation, new markets, and operational efficiency.
- SHAPE IT – Networks & Engagement: Collaborate across value chains and sectors to accelerate change.
- CONNECT IT – Continuity & Tenacity: Ensure sustainability is continuously reinforced and embedded across the organization.
These components are designed to be iterative and adaptable across industries and regions.
Application
The framework can be applied in three main ways:erm.com
- Getting the Lay of the Land: Assess current sustainability maturity and identify gaps.
- Building Capacity: Develop tailored training and engagement programs to upskill staff and leadership.
- Joining Forces: Foster cross-sector collaboration to tackle systemic challenges like regenerative agriculture or circular plastics.
Case studies from companies like BMW, Microsoft, PepsiCo, and Nestlé illustrate how the framework is being used to drive transformation.
Outcomes
By applying this framework, companies can:
- Move beyond compliance to unlock strategic and commercial value.
- Build resilience against future disruptions.
- Accelerate progress toward net-zero, nature-positive, and equitable outcomes.
- Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration.
Ultimately, the report positions sustainability as a strategic imperative — one that demandsbold leadership, cross-functional integration, and continuous adaptation.