Sustainability has become a crucial aspect of businesses worldwide, with many striving to adopt environmentally-friendly practices. The Global 100 Index by Corporate Knights annually ranks the most sustainable publicly-listed companies based on their carbon footprint, gender diversity, and other climate commitments. The following ten companies are the most sustainable, according to the index.
- Schnitzer Steel Industries: This steelmaking company, which appeared in the index for the first time in 2022, has a sustainable approach to steel production by recycling steel and other metals. It then transforms the recycled scrap into finished products with the use of electric arc furnaces powered by hydropower, making the metal low carbon.
- Vestas Wind Systems: As a Danish wind turbine manufacturer, Vestas Wind has seen a 24 percent cut in its volatile organic compound emissions since 2019. Its vast contribution to the renewable energy sector, as well as the safety of workers, makes it one of the most sustainable corporations worldwide.
- Brambles: This supply-chain logistics company offers reusable pallets, crates, and containers, making it a pioneer of the sharing economy. Brambles’ sustainability vision is to deliver life’s essentials in an environment- and people-positive way.
- Brookfield Renewable Partners: This power generation company generates 99 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources like hydro, wind, and solar. It helps governments and businesses meet their decarbonization goals.
- Autodesk: Autodesk earns 93 percent of its revenue from offering sustainability-optimizing software for buildings and infrastructure. It aims to help customers use energy and materials more efficiently, reduce waste and move towards a low-carbon economy.
- Evoqua Water Technologies: This wastewater treatment systems and technologies provider helps industrial, commercial, and municipal markets across the world take a sustainable approach to their day-to-day processes. Its Water One service is a digital water management platform that helps companies build better water treatment systems.
- Stantec (joint position): Stantec is a consulting services company that provides engineering, architecture, and environmental solutions to businesses worldwide. The company was listed as a partner in the United Nations’ Decade of Ecosystem Restoration last year.
- Schneider Electric (joint position): Tying with Stantec in the seventh position in the 2023 Global 100, Schneider Electric garnered the first place spot in 2021. The energy and automation provider aims to realize efficiency and sustainability opportunities for businesses worldwide by providing cutting-edge digital solutions.
- Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy: This leader in the supply of wind power solutions developed the world’s first recyclable wind turbine blade in 2021, known as RecyclableBlade. Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy aims to combat poverty and foster technological education among diverse communities while protecting the environment.
- Taiwan High-Speed Rail: This railway system operating in Taiwan took 43 million passengers with a 99 percent punctuality rate in 2021. It scores high on energy and carbon productivity and pension fund quality while enhancing local connections overall.
- Dassault Systèmes: This provider of software for 3D product design and manufacturing aims to assist companies across architecture and materials to home and lifestyle with sustainable technology solutions while committing to sustainability. Dassault Systèmes’ positive social impact is also notable.
Takeaway
As we reach the end of our discussion, it’s clear that the 10 companies mentioned above have set an exemplary standard for sustainability practices. These innovative and forward-thinking organizations have taken concrete steps towards protecting our planet, not just for their own benefit, but for the greater good of our society and future generations.
Their dedication to sustainability is reflected in their ongoing efforts to reduce their carbon footprint, invest in renewable energy, and adopt environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes. By prioritizing sustainability, these companies are not only helping to combat climate change, but also enhancing their reputation and contributing to long-term business success.
However, there’s still a long way to go in the fight against climate change, and it’s crucial that other businesses worldwide follow in the footsteps of these sustainability leaders. By taking inspiration from these companies and adopting sustainable practices, businesses can make a significant positive impact on the environment while also benefiting their bottom line.
In the end, we must remember that the fight against climate change is a collective effort, and every business has a role to play. By working together towards a sustainable future, we can ensure a healthier and more prosperous planet for generations to come.