Switzerland: Sustainability Is Now – AlixPartners

Insights from a recent panel discussion featuring Barbara Kux, a
distinguished Swiss executive and management and supervisory board
member of leading global corporates, and Stefano
Aversa, Global Vice Chair at AlixPartners.

At a point in time when there is no shortage of pressing global
concerns, sustainability needs to be considered in the broader
context of social, political and economic developments. When
determining strategic sustainability priorities, it is crucial to
adopt both a long-term perspective and an opportunity-driven
approach. To shape your strategic agenda effectively, Barbara
recommends considering the “3 Ps”:

• People: emphasize collaboration, diversity, equity and
  inclusion




• Planet: take care of our natural surroundings and promote
  environmental stewardship




• Profit: foster sustainable innovation and opportunities

However, achieving a balance between sustainability and business
priorities can be challenging. Conflicting objectives and the
ideological nature surrounding climate change need to be
acknowledged. Sustainability is often perceived as a luxury that
only a privileged few can afford, underscoring the importance of
finding a balanced and pragmatic approach. In the face of growing
global energy demand, the energy trilemma depicts the complex
challenge of balancing the goals of energy availability,
accessibility and affordability in Stefano’s view.

As Barbara suggests, companies can turn sustainability into
reality by identifying and capitalizing on business opportunities
that align with their sustainability goals. Other success factors
supporting impactful implementation of your sustainability agenda
include engagement with stakeholders, including NGOs, involving
younger teams, running pilot projects, and ensuring internal
alignment through supplier selection, code of conduct and audits.
Measuring results, too, can boost performance. To demonstrate to
external stakeholders that you’re “walking the talk”,
effective communication and adequate PR strategies are essential
for showcasing sustainability efforts.

Here are our panelists’ top three sustainability
priorities:

1. Just do it. Strategy without execution is meaningless. Take
   action and implement your sustainability plans.




2. Develop a specific plan, e.g., to reduce your individual CO2
   emissions and consistently measure progress to make tangible
   improvements.




3. Recognize your individual responsibility in protecting nature
   and the environment.

By embracing these insights, we can collectively create a better
and more sustainable future and increase the attractiveness of our
organizations at the same time.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general
guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought
about your specific circumstances.