As scores of businesses from across the Solent prepare to come together to discuss sustainability next month, Grant Thornton UK LLP has revealed that 90% of companies believe achieving their sustainability goals is either important or very important to the overall success of their organisation.
In addition, over a third (40%) of CEOs are taking on accountability for sustainability reporting personally.
The financial planning and accountancy firm says the results of the survey show businesses are taking sustainability issues more seriously than ever before.
Norman Armstrong, Partner at Grant Thornton’s Southampton office, said: “It is very encouraging that businesses are not only placing great emphasis on sustainability, but senior management and CEOs are taking the helm and leading the way.
“Carbon reporting may only be mandatory for London Stock Exchange-listed businesses but it is clear that medium-sized firms anticipate its impact and potential extension in the future. For companies looking to capitalise on green growth opportunities, commercialising new products and services to help with carbon monitoring and reporting and energy efficiency are critical. Water scarcity and rising commodity prices are lower down the agenda but are likely to become more pressing for mid-market organisations over the next few years.”
The news comes as Business Solent prepares for the “Sustainability and Business Growth” Briefing in Bournemouth on November 14. The event will bring together the Solent region’s environment and sustainability professionals and give them a platform for demonstrating the changes that can be made to help improve a business’s ‘green credentials’.
James Cretney, Chair of Business Solent’s Sustainable Solent Action Group, and Chief Executive of Marwell Wildlife said: “The results of Grant Thornton’s survey and report confirm that businesses of all sizes are placing greater emphasis on reporting on sustainability issues. This is certainly something we have seen from Solent Champions and it will be interesting to hear if the findings are reflected by those attending the briefing.”
