As sustainability professionals, we have a responsibility to be part of the solution. Our commitment to sustainability is not just a job requirement; it’s a belief in the work we do. Research shows that professionals who genuinely believe in the principles they advocate are more effective in their roles. Therefore, we are inherently part of the solution because we are the experts in this field.

However, we must be mindful of how we discuss large corporations. These companies often find themselves constrained by the decisions of policymakers and the financial pressures exerted by the world’s wealth holders. They need to adapt, and while their journey towards sustainability might seem slow, the mindset shift within these organizations is real and filled with potential for positive change. In our work, we meet individuals from these companies every day. Even if the boards are not yet convinced about the need for change, there are many on the ground who understand and advocate for it. This change is a systemic one, requiring a fundamental shift in how we think and operate. Our role is to help these companies find and implement solutions, showcasing the hope that sustainability brings.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) must become a core value embedded within companies to shift their cultures towards sustainability. Change is a gradual process, and by taking one step at a time, we can foster a mindset change. Adopting a systems thinking approach, as highlighted by Donella Meadows in “Leverage Points: Places to Intervene in a System,” (https://donellameadows.org/archives/leverage-points-places-to-intervene-in-a-system/) we need to alter the goals and underlying assumptions of our current systems. This approach will enable us to drive meaningful change.

In conclusion, to achieve true sustainability, we must transform both the systems and the social contracts that govern them. Your thoughts and contributions on how we can further this narrative and implement these changes would be invaluable.