Is sustainability now a choice between compliance and innovation for business? During a time of regulation, (CSRD, CSDDD to name just two), ESG scepticism and increasing societal pressures.
In this episode of Social Impact Pioneers, we talk with Dr. Mary Johnstone-Louis, Senior Fellow at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, and Co-Director of Oxford’s Sustainable Business Programme. Dr. Johnstone-Louis brings a wealth of experience from her work across five continents, focusing on corporate responsibility and sustainability in various contexts.
We dive into the crucial conversation around sustainability as a choice between compliance and innovation. Dr. Johnstone-Louis argues that businesses must view sustainability not just as a regulatory requirement but as a transformative opportunity for innovation and growth. She emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate science, politics, and strategy, especially as sustainability becomes more mainstream.
Our discussion also touches on the pivotal role of academia in shaping sustainable practices and educating future leaders. Dr. Johnstone-Louis believes that researchers can drive meaningful change by challenging conventional business norms and inspiring new perspectives on corporate governance and ethics.
Listeners will gain insights into the enablers and blockers in the sustainability landscape, from emerging trends to potential threats. Dr. Johnstone-Louis highlights the need for businesses to move beyond mere compliance to create value through innovative solutions that benefit society and the environment.
As we explore Dr. Johnstone-Louis’s journey and her contributions to the evolving discourse on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, we emphasise that effective sustainability practices are essential for long-term success. This episode is a must-listen for business leaders, academics, and anyone passionate about the intersection of business and sustainability.
Join us as we learn from one of the leading voices in corporate ethics and governance, and discover how you can be part of the solution for a more sustainable future.
Links:
KPMG, 2024 Sustainability Organisation Survey
IBM, How to create business value with embedded sustainability
FT, Forget COP26 boasts — decarbonising takes thousands of tiny, boring steps
Oxford University, Net Zero, Tracking Progress
Business Fights Poverty Global Goals Summit
Business Fights Poverty workshop with Meta: DRIVING ESG INNOVATION IN THE NEW REGULATORY CONTEXT
