Sustainability has become an internal nerve centre where cross-functional teams collaborate to translate goals into enterprise-wide execution plans

Sustainability today is more than a boardroom conversation. It’s the quiet recalibration happening deep within organizations, from the way raw materials are sourced, to how packaging is disposed of. In light of World Environment Day, it is important to consider the vital role that Chief Sustainability Officers and internal sustainability teams play, in transforming values into quantifiable performance and effect.

Companies around the globe now know that long-term success is intrinsically linked to environmental responsibility. According to the Global Risks Report 2024 by World Economic Forum, environmental and climate change risks are currently the most pressing issues facing the world, prompting brands to include environmental objectives as a key component of their strategies.

This shift is further accelerated in India, as a result of the introduction of a regulatory framework such as SEBI’s Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR), which mandates ESG revelation for the top 1,000 listed companies. Amid rising expectations from stakeholders — from investors to conscious consumers, businesses are increasingly embracing sustainability not just as a strategic imperative, but as a core responsibility that aligns with their values and purpose.

Take for instance, the fast moving consumer goods industry – businesses are including sustainability into their supply chains, manufacturing processes and product development. Manufacturers are working to become carbon neutral and net water positive, while also redesigning reusable packaging to minimize environmental impact and enhance efficiency. CSOs are expanding this revolution by assisting companies in navigating this important shift and bridging the gap between desire and execution.

Organising internal ESG initiatives, optimising resource use, and exceeding set goals with measurable results is just one of the formal guiding principles that many mission-led brands are now basing their sustainability strategy on. This has resulted in goals including reducing resource use and boosting the usage of recyclable packaging. These initiatives show a strong, all-round commitment to making sustainability a core part of how the organisation works, often resulting in milestones like reaching water stewardship targets at manufacturing facilities, extending health and education outreach in underprivileged communities, and growing circular product portfolios.

What makes these efforts work, is the shift in how internal sustainability teams operate. The Chief Sustainability officer (CSO) today wears many hats: strategist, integrator, communicator, tasked with aligning purpose with performance across the organisation. Sustainability has become an internal nerve-centre where cross functional teams collaborate to translate goals into enterprise-wide executional plans.

Building on this commitment, some organisations have taken it a step further by creating cross-functional “green councils.” These councils bring together representatives from various departments to collaborate on tracking progress, reviewing efforts, and driving ESG goals forward. This approach not only promotes shared accountability but also helps embed sustainability into the company’s core values.

Packaging innovation is one area where these councils and teams are clearly having an influence. The 4R framework— Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—is being used by several FMCG firms to not just reduce plastic usage but also to completely rethink product and packaging design. Businesses are being encouraged to engage in sustainable methods, and refill systems, lightweight materials, and mono-material packaging are all becoming the rule rather – than the exception.

Globally, the CSO’s evolution has been significant. According to a Harvard Business Review article, the position now involves developing board-level strategies rather than PR-aligned reporting. This is also true in India, where capital allocation and hiring decisions are starting to be influenced by ESG integration.

Additionally, enterprise resilience and ESG are becoming more closely related. Companies with more advanced sustainability frameworks report higher stakeholder trust, improved employee retention, and increased operational efficiency. Brands with a defined mission are more appealing to value-first personnel. Notably, the role of Chief Sustainability Officer is increasingly embracing diversity and inclusion.

In India, technology is becoming a true collaborator in promoting ESG performance rather than just a support function. Thanks to solutions like AI-powered emissions trackers, intuitive digital dashboards, and intelligent ESG platforms, businesses can now better evaluate their direct environmental and social impact. By helping teams find gaps, track their progress, and quickly adjust their strategies, these technologies are helping teams to do more than just meet compliance obligations. By making sustainability more responsive, actionable, and consistent with long-term goals, technology is strengthening the foundation of ESG programs.

In sectors where consumer loyalty hinges on ethical sourcing, product transparency, and cause-led branding, ESG alignment, enabled by smart data and digital tools, is fast becoming a key driver of revenue and long-term growth.

Structured governance is what is making this transformation possible. Businesses are establishing ESG core committees and linking sustainability KPIs to performance-based rewards. With the use of data, technologies, and strategic oversight, internal sustainability teams are implementing some of the most significant transformations in value chains, communities, and product life cycles.

Talent is evolving alongside this shift. Today’s young professionals are actively seeking out companies that care for the environment and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Organisations that prioritise sustainability tend to foster a culture that attracts, inspires, and retains purpose-driven employees.

The process of creating a sustainable business is a long one, full of opportunities as well as difficulties. Internal sustainability teams become engines of creativity, adaptability, and significant influence when they are given the proper resources, clear guidance, and a mission-driven culture.

World Environment Day underscores the need for alignment, emphasizing that true progress requires more than just action. Lasting change comes from leadership that pairs bold sustainability goals with shared responsibility and tangible results.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication.