Study Finds Sustainability Improves a Company’s Bottom Line

Although companies may balk at instituting sustainability measures due to the initial costs, the results are well worth it, according to the results of a new corporate sustainability survey, Innovating for a Sustainable Future.

The report, from global technology company NTT, examined the results of sustainability practices at more than 500 U.S. companies. It found that 44% of the companies experienced improved profitability as a direct result of the sustainability programs.

“As the global population refocuses its attention on the health and wellbeing of people and the planet, we have seen a renewed commitment from organizations to implement and advance sustainable business practices,” said Vito Mabrucco, Head of Global Marketing at NTT. “At the same time, the health of people versus the health of profits is not an either-or-decision; sustainability and profitability are becoming mutually reliant.”

Key findings of the report reveal:

• 68% of surveyed companies report that becoming more sustainable is key to their organization’s future
• 47% said the pandemic elevated the importance of sustainability for their organizations
• 33% experienced reduced operating costs, 32% experienced greater innovation and/or new business models, and 24% experienced increased revenue growth, all tied to becoming more sustainable
• Four out of ten companies stated that customers, employees, shareholders, and local communities expect their companies to drive positive change by becoming more sustainable.