[CDx Launch Session Summary] Fishbowl 15: Building Internal and Stakeholder Support

The session on “Building Internal and Stakeholder Support” explored the strategies and challenges of embedding sustainability within large organizations. Panelists, representing a diverse range of industries, shared their insights into how they navigated internal resistance to sustainability initiatives, engaged stakeholders, and aligned sustainability goals with business objectives. Aakrati Sucklecha, Global Sustainable Solutions Manager at Rhenus Logistics, emphasized that changing mindsets and incentive structures is crucial for successfully driving sustainability within organizations.

The discussion highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into core business strategies, ensuring that sustainability goals align with financial and operational targets to gain buy-in from senior management. Panelists also underscored the need for effective communication, education, and incentive structures to engage employees and create a culture of sustainability. Collaboration with external stakeholders such as suppliers, customers, and industry peers was identified as a key driver for collective action and achieving sustainability goals at scale. The panel concluded by stressing the importance of introducing sustainability into educational curriculums to build awareness and equip the next generation with the skills needed for a sustainable future.

Key Takeaways

• Aligning Sustainability with Business Objectives: Sustainability should be integrated into the core business strategy to gain support from senior management and employees.

• Effective Communication & Incentives: Regular updates, town halls, and clear incentive structures are essential for engaging employees and overcoming resistance to change.

• Collaboration for Impact: Working with suppliers, customers, and industry peers amplifies the impact of sustainability initiatives and helps build a stronger business case for sustainability.

• Education for Future Generations: Embedding sustainability into educational curricula is crucial to build awareness and develop the skills needed for the next generation of sustainable leaders.