Not A Solo Trip

Repurposing the business is but the first step towards achieving sustainability goals. Buy-in and engagement of all the stakeholders are core to their realisation.

- Muniinder K Anand, Center For Creative Leadership

In 2016, the United Nations adopted 17 goals—these goals commonly known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—represent what we as a race must accomplish to ensure better survival of our future generations. They work as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. These SDGs include zero hunger, gender equality, clean water, affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities and communities, and climate action among others.

How can CEOs build on the many opportunities offered by the UN Sustainable Development Goals?

It is apparent that responsible businesses and businesses with a purpose are bound to play a crucial role in fulfilling the UN SDGs. By actively participating in this initiative, businesses and leaders not only help build a thriving, more sustainable world, but also contribute to more mature new global markets and help the world enter the next era of business. We are poised at a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to translate the SDGs into responsible business practices, innovation, investment, and giving back to society.

The increased protests and debates around sustainability across the globe serve to emphasise the importance of keeping the SDGs at the heart of all executive agendas and with good reasons and intent. Based on research, the potential lies in the estimated $12 trillion growth linked to achieving the SDGs, and the associated jobs that could be created or retained. The issues the goals address are central to governments, regulators, investors, and millions of consumers, and will be at the heart of equitable and safe business and societal development in the coming years. As with any new strategy or growth opportunity, a lot will depend on making the SDGs a central part of the business strategy. This strategy is more often than not determined at the very top of the organisation.