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Deloitte 2022 CxO Sustainability Report

The disconnect between ambition and impact

A survey of 2,000+ C-level executives reveals CxOs are increasingly concerned about climate change. Yet, they’re struggling to fully embed sustainability into their core business strategies, operations, and cultures.

A tipping point for climate change

According to our survey, 89% of CxOs agree there’s a climate crisis and almost 79% of executives surveyed by Deloitte see the world at a tipping point for responding to climate change, compared to 59% eight months ago. Despite the gravity of the moment, there is a prevailing sense of optimism: 88% currently agree that with immediate action, we can limit the worst impacts of climate change.

 

CLIMATE CHANGE IS IMPACTING BUSINESS

Ninety-seven percent of companies have felt the impact of climate change, including operational and supply chain disruptions, regulatory uncertainty, and increased employee anxiety.

 

GROWING PRESSURE TO ACT

Stakeholders increasingly expect executives to address climate change, with pressure coming from regulators, boards, customers, shareholders, and employees alike.

COMPANIES ARE ACTING, BUT IS IT ENOUGH?

There’s progress: 53% have sustainability officers, 67% plan to be net-zero by 2030 or before, 55% are reducing air travel. But a third haven’t taken more than one of five of what Deloitte’s analysis identifies as “needle-moving” actions.

LEADERS OFFER LESSONS LEARNED

Leading companies who have implemented at least four of five “needle-moving” actions are unlocking the benefits of sustainability and embedding it into business strategies, operations, and cultures.

Climate change and the C-suite

Business leaders have a unique responsibility to help the world transition
to a lower-carbon future. Are they up to the challenge?