Sustainability is still smart business: Navigating corporate communication strategy in a changing landscape
At the Sustainable Growth Coalition’s March learning lab, members explored how to communicate the value of sustainability initiatives within a changing economic and political landscape. Panelists Noemí Jiménez of qb. consulting, John Mandyck of Urban Green Council, and Steve Rochlin of Impact ROI highlighted the need for flexible, values-driven communication strategies that resonate with both internal and external stakeholders.
Articulating the value of sustainability has become more nuanced in recent years. As regulatory environments shift and the term “ESG” grows increasingly politicized, organizations are being called to rethink how they talk about sustainability. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work; rather than relying on standard narratives, communicators must tailor their message for specific stakeholders. Whether that’s a finance team looking for cost savings, a legal department navigating disclosures, or employees seeking purpose at work, centering your audience’s values is key to building and maintaining support for sustainability efforts.
Sustainability is not a trend—it’s a durable driver of resilience and competitiveness. Organizations can support their messaging on environmental impact with analytics that illustrate value in terms of risk management, cost savings, and adaptability. Tying data in with relatable narratives of human health, justice, and community well-being can unlock deeper engagement and speak to audiences that are looking for a meaningful “why.”
Throughout the session, one theme held steady: sustainability professionals are strategists, communicators, relationship builders, and way finders in an ever-changing landscape. The ability to communicate with clarity, nuance, and authenticity isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s essential to driving real change.
For a more in-depth look at the insights shared by our panelists, you can watch the entire discussion below.
Resources from the panel:
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- Note: An updated study will be released soon, keep an eye on the Impact ROI website for the newest version.
- Why global sustainability efforts will continue despite Trump -Harvard Business Review