85% of executives increased their investments in sustainability so far this year, up from 75% in 2023

Climate change remains a top priority for global C-suite executives, surpassing concerns such as political uncertainty, talent competition, and evolving regulatory environments, a new Deloitte report has revealed. 

The report highlighted that 85% of executives have increased their investments in sustainability so far this year, up from 75% in 2023. Half have begun implementing technology solutions to meet climate goals, the report added.

This is the third consecutive year Deloitte has surveyed global executives on their sustainability and climate change strategies.

Contrary to some media interpretations, the report noted a surge in sustainability investments and a shift toward integrating climate action into core business strategies.

“Global executives are not retreating from sustainability; rather, they are increasing their investments and transforming their business models to address climate change as a central element of their strategies,” the report said.

Seventy percent of executives, according to the report,  anticipate a high or very high impact from climate change on their companies' strategies and operations over the next three years, up from 61% the previous year. Nearly 45% are redesigning their business models to integrate climate change and sustainability into their strategic framework.

“Companies are starting to see the business potential in driving value creation through the shift to a low-emissions economy,” the report pointed out. “Sustainability is increasingly seen as a driver of new products, business models, and overall value creation, rather than just a compliance or branding exercise.”

The report underlined the need for businesses to intensify their efforts in light of the latest climate data. “After the hottest year on record and with evident climate change impacts, businesses must focus on immediate emission reductions, building resilience, and ensuring equitable impacts from climate action and energy transitions. Such measures can lead to significant business benefits,” the report said.

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