China To Ban All Single-Use Plastics

Until recently, most HR professionals have stayed on the sidelines of corporate sustainability and their firm’s ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) investment activity. But with increasing pressure from investors, employees, and other key stakeholders, HR executives are leaning in to the strategic opportunity of a sustainability lens and sustainable Human Capital Management (HCM) practices. For the past year, our Human Capital Investment and Reporting Council (HC IRC) has explored ways to bring sustainable business practices into people management.

Over the last decade, we have seen a growing preference for products made by companies that have built purpose and sustainability into their business model. Some of the world’s most successful and fastest growing companies have adopted care for the environment and a commitment to work to help solve some of society’s most pressing problems so that purpose and sustainability have become hallmarks of successful and respected businesses.

There is a unique opportunity for businesses to lead the way when it comes to sustainable investments.  But it needs the support of governments and regulators, and it will require hard dollars and soft power.  By seizing the opportunities and working together, the private sector can not only create a more sustainable future, but can unlock significant long-term value, for business and for society.