Integrating Sustainability Into the Core of the Business

Von Timo Heroth und Jonas Miesner

In an increasingly dynamic and stakeholder-driven business environment, how can organizations effectively integrate sustainability into the core of the business? Lindsay Zingg is Head of Corporate Sustainability at Georg Fischer AG and one of our experts of the course Sustainability Fundamentals for IR Practitioners. In this interview, she highlights emerging trends shaping the future of corporate sustainability and the critical importance of collaboration between sustainability and investor relations functions. Her perspectives offer valuable guidance for professionals seeking to align sustainability goals with long-term business performance.

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Question 1: The Future of Sustainability Integration

Despite recent challenges—such as regulatory pushbacks like the Omnibus package and growing external pressures leading some financial institutions to exit net-zero alliances—the long-term strategic shift towards sustainability remains inevitable. Looking ahead over the next decade, how would you characterize the current phase of sustainability development, and what key trends do you foresee shaping corporate sustainability strategies in the years to come?

The current phase of sustainability development is a critical transition period. Despite challenges like regulatory pushbacks and external pressures, the momentum towards sustainability remains strong.

Key Trends Shaping Corporate Sustainability Strategies

1. Regulatory Evolution: Stricter regulations and global policy shifts are pushing companies to adopt detailed sustainability reporting and science-based transition plans.
2. Technological Advancements: AI and new technologies are enhancing ESG reporting and facilitating the transition to a low-carbon economy.
3. Climate and Nature: Companies are focusing on biodiversity, ecosystem preservation, and managing physical climate risks.
4. Supply Chain Transformation: Sustainable and resilient supply chains, along with circular economy models, are becoming more prevalent.
5. Social Equity and Just Transition: Inclusive growth and the demand for green talent are central to corporate sustainability strategies.

Looking ahead, companies that integrate these trends into their core operations will be better positioned to navigate the evolving landscape and contribute to a sustainable future.

Question 2: Strengthening Collaboration Between Sustainability and Investor Relations (IR)

As Head of Corporate Sustainability at Georg Fischer AG, you have deep insights into the intersection of sustainability, communications, and investor relations. Given the increasing importance of ESG factors in financial markets, how should sustainability and IR teams collaborate effectively? What are the critical success factors for fostering a productive partnership that ensures companies to align sustainability efforts with investor expectations and corporate strategy?

I think regular communication is key, I have regular meetings with the teams. In GF we do integrated reporting, combining sustainability and financial data with clear metrics, which provides a comprehensive view of the company’s performance for investors. I also have proactive engagement with investors via ESG roadshows, educating them on the benefits of ESG and addressing their concerns directly.
By focusing on these strategies, sustainability and IR teams can forge a productive partnership that advances corporate sustainability and satisfies investor demands.

Question 3: Addressing the Growing Demand for Non-Financial Sustainability Data

With asset owners and institutional investors intensifying their stewardship efforts, companies are under increasing pressure to provide transparent, high-quality sustainability data and information. How can sustainability teams proactively support IR in meeting these rising expectations? What best practices should companies adopt to streamline ESG reporting, enhance investor engagement, and ensure regulatory compliance?

For me, best practices include strong governance, implementing robust reporting standards, aligning ESG efforts with the company’s corporate strategy, and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. By adopting these strategies, companies can streamline ESG reporting, enhance investor engagement, and build stakeholder trust.