Discovering Business Value in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

But while the SDGs garner widespread backing for their effective harmonization of the three dimensions of sustainable development – social inclusion, environmental protection, and economic growth – a challenge prevails in transitioning to transformative action on SDG-aligned business strategies and capital allocation.

Earlier this year, Trucost embarked on a journey with multiple companies, supported by an advisory panel of investment professionals, interest group representatives, and academics to develop a holistic set of SDG metrics that would provide market participants with the data transparency needed to accelerate progress on SDGs. A set of metrics encompassing the entire corporate value chain, from raw material inputs to product use and disposal, within the context of a company’s geographic operations. Underpinning our findings was a tool for market participants to identify SDG-aligned business value, prioritize risks and opportunities, and inform sustainable growth strategies