“The future is sustainable development… that’s going to be a 5 to 7 trillion-dollar investment space within 10 to 15 years. Every bank, every institutional investor, is now turning its attention to this space.”
Mark Burrows Vice Chairman of Global Investment Banking, Credit Suisse“Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors relevant to a company’s business can provide essential insights into management effectiveness and thus a company’s long-term prospects. We look to see that a company is attuned to the key factors that contribute to long-term growth: sustainability of the business model and its operations, attention to external and environmental factors that could impact the company, and recognition of the company’s role as a member of the communities in which it operates.”
Larry Fink CEO, BlackRock“There is no business case in enduring poverty and climate change. The cost of inaction is enormous – currently at $10 trillion and growing every year. In contrast, there is growing evidence that companies with a focus on sustainable development perform better.”
Paul Polman CEO, Unilever“Let’s be clear. A company’s first responsibility is to its shareholders and delivering sustainable returns on their investment. To do that, you’re automatically part of the community you operate in. Society is your customer base. And just because there is money changing hands doesn’t mean it is only ever an economic transaction. There’s an implicit social contract between companies and communities – just ask any brand that has ever been on the receiving end of a boycott.”
Alan Joyce CEO & MD, Qantas Airways Limited
