Key Takeaways
- Integration leads: Making sustainability central to business strategy is the strongest signal of sustainability leadership, according to experts.
- Evidence builds trust: Demonstrating measurable impacts and actions is critical to building trust with stakeholders.
- Supply chain action also matters: Engaging suppliers and partners to drive systemic change reinforces leadership perceptions among stakeholders.
New research from GlobeScan and ERM, based on insights from nearly 400 global sustainability experts, reveals what truly defines corporate sustainability leadership. The findings underscore that leadership today is first and foremost about integration and evidence.
How did we find out? We asked sustainability experts to name a company they consider a leader, and to explain why. Their answers make it clear: recognized leadership depends on both strategic integration and tangible proof. The most influential factor, cited by 26 percent of experts, is making sustainability a core business driver. Close behind, 21 percent emphasize demonstrating evidence of impacts and actions. Other key elements include driving sustainability across the supply chain (12%), showing unwavering commitment and ambitious targets (11% each), and aligning purpose and values (9%). Leadership visibility, transparent communications, and innovation round out the list.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?
These results show that companies are expected to double down on integration and evidence, not just as best practices, but as levers to activate and demonstrate the business value of sustainability. In today’s era of backlash, greenhushing, and regulatory uncertainty, making sustainability a core business driver signals resilience and relevance, while proving measurable impacts and actions builds trust and counters skepticism.
The GlobeScan / ERM Sustainability Institute Leaders Survey identifies the most pressing priorities in today’s global sustainable development agenda. The 2025 edition explores what defines sustainability leadership in the private sector and civil society while tracking shifts in priority issues over time. This year’s survey, conducted between August and October 2025, reflects insights from 391 sustainability experts across 57 countries.
Survey Question: Why do you think [INSERT COMPANY #1] is a leader in sustainable development? Please enter up to two responses in the spaces provided.
