New Sustainability Survey: Companies Report Progress as Public Demands Faster Action

Veolia North America released its second annual Triple Net Zero Industry Progress Report. The study is based on a comprehensive interview survey of 300 major corporations across 12 industries, assessing the progress made by companies in their journey toward achieving net-zero environmental goals in carbon, water and waste.

As companies increasingly face mounting pressure from investors, regulators and the public, sustainability has become a critical aspect of business strategy. This latest report reveals the important factors that help companies overcome challenges toward climate progress, and highlights gaps and barriers to meeting corporate climate targets. Some of the key findings include: 

• Companies are on the right track, but the public demands more action: A significant gap exists between corporate and public sentiment on climate change. While 98% of companies consider sustainability important, only 30% see climate change as a "high risk" to their operations.
• Beyond decarbonization – water, waste goals offer the greatest opportunity for immediate progress: The greatest opportunities to quickly and inexpensively address “low hanging fruit” exist in the water and waste sectors. The study found that fewer than 20% of companies had an “excellent understanding” of the pathway to reach their water and waste reduction goals. 
• Education and partnership can accelerate corporate sustainability programs: Although 72% of companies claim to be “on track” with their sustainability plans, only 21% report having advanced sustainability programs in place.

The study also provides regional and industry breakdowns of sustainability progress. 

Veolia North America | https://www.veolianorthamerica.com/