Global Sustainability Trends: How Businesses Can Lead
From November 10 to 21, global leaders will convene in Belém for COP30, marking a crucial moment for both climate diplomacy and business strategy. For FMCG companies, this signals that environmental risks have become priorities at the board level. Droughts, deforestation, and water stress are disrupting supply chains, while consumers increasingly demand transparency.
Insights from the Global Sustainability Trends Report
This article draws from the Global Sustainability Trends: Embracing a Lower Carbon Future report, highlighting how leading companies use sustainability to drive resilience, innovation, and growth.
- 62% of companies plan to launch sustainable products, but only 53% have a net-zero strategy.
- Only 6% believe they communicate sustainability effectively to consumers.
Key Actions for Business Leadership
To lead in sustainability, companies must integrate efforts across all business areas rather than treating them as isolated initiatives.
“Despite growing momentum, global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are projected to rise by 0.4% annually through to 2029.”
The challenge is systemic but progress is evident. Brands like Strong Roots and Neutral Foods use verified carbon data to build consumer trust and differentiate themselves in competitive markets. Carbon transparency is becoming a significant competitive advantage.
Environmental Challenges Affecting Business
- Droughts
- Deforestation
- Water stress
These factors contribute to supply chain disruptions and emphasize the urgency for businesses to prioritize sustainability.
Consumer Expectations and Transparency
Consumers now demand greater transparency from brands, pushing companies to improve communication and accountability regarding sustainability efforts.
Source
Euromonitor Voice of the Industry Survey, conducted April 2025 (n=258) and April 2024 (n=499).
Author's summary: Sustainability is becoming a core business imperative as companies face environmental risks and rising consumer demands, making integrated climate action vital for resilience and market leadership.