“Are we facing a sustainability recession?”

That was just one of the many thought-provoking questions discussed at Environment Analyst’s Sustainability Delivery Summit held this month (June 9-11) in Chicago, Illinois. Among other topics, the Summit featured a panel discussion on the business case for sustainability (click here for a summary of the session). The question was asked, “Why do we have to make a business case for sustainability?” Panelists representing energy, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, and real estate industries shared their thoughts about integrating sustainability across their businesses. Some insights from the session, straight from the documented key takeaways (click here), are as follows:

• Sustainability is facing a backlash – the topic has become politicized and polarizing.
• Cost remains a key factor.
• Language matters.
• Investors are still engaged.
• State-level regulations drive demand.
• Long-term thinking is essential.