Politics of Business Sustainability

Sustainability has moved beyond the traditional societal and environmental conversations. It has become a topic for political discussion between states and nations, and it is on the corporate agenda of just about every major company in the world. Addressed as either a risk or a major opportunity, boardrooms are undoubtedly having the discussions of business sustainability.

Companies are recognizing the need to align their political activities with their commitments on sustainability. True long-term business sustainability means business leaders can no longer support positions that are in direct contradiction with social and environmental policies and commitments. The economic pressures and incentives are creating alignment between business value and business sustainability.

Edelman and its research partners recently analyzed the market’s ability to assess current Corporate Responsibility communications. Their research indicates people take action against companies they do not trust.

Refused to buy their products or use their services – 81%
Refused to invest in them – 70%
Refused to work for them – 50%
Supported legislation controlling or limiting their activities – 47%
Shared your opinion and experiences on the Web – 40%

In a study by the Forum for the Future, the question was posed to today’s businesses: Do your political activities reflect and support your sustainability agenda? The study goes on to cite the “Hallmarks of a Leader in External Affairs”.

Consistency on public sustainability messages and ‘behind the scenes’ lobbying can be demonstrated, with policy proposals reflecting policies and commitments on sustainability.
The organization seeks progressive government action towards a higher degree of sustainability, on a national and international level.
Reporting on lobbying activities and memberships of Trade Associations is open and transparent.
There is active engagement in cross-sector alliances, including NGOs and other stakeholders, with engagement designed to address key problems.

Political or professional consulting firms will tell you that less than half of all major companies provide information on their lobbying and public policy activities. However as a sustainability consultant, I can say that within the other 50% there is some great work being done to provide business transparency. CERES is an organization generating movement in this regard with the use of GRI reporting.

At Taiga Company, we are confident that growing business eco awareness combined with changing societal expectations will be furthering business transparency efforts.