Assessing Sustainability Frameworks

When we work with engineers on projects, we are often asked to guide their decision-making around the type of framework within which a project can be assessed. With so many options available, it can be difficult to pin down which will be the most effective and understand the differences between all the offerings. Different sectors provide their own guidance, and often these include accreditation processes that are well recognised and desired for by ambitious companies.?

When trying to decide which guidance will be appropriate, ask yourself this question – what is it that our company is trying to achieve for the future? The answers to this question will be varied, often align to company values, and create space to develop a pathway towards this destination.??

Zero Carbon ?

Zero carbon ambitions might lead to the implementation of Science Based Targets. These provide a clear framework for action to bring down organisational carbon emissions to near zero, with targets fully delivered by 2050. The initiative is working hard to align themselves with other global reporting frameworks, making the delivery of this framework a good starting point.??

Industry accreditation?

Accreditation frameworks are often useful in showing leadership and innovation, helping to secure clients and ensure progress is ongoing. A number exist, more or less controversial and effective, from B-Corp to ISO standards and industry-led business marks. Many broadly cover similar activities and involve costs to implement and maintain over time. Accreditation may help secure new clients or tenders and in future, may become part of the procurement requirements. ?

Capital flows and risk?

Another useful approach is to consider the flow of capitals across an organisation or project. Again, several frameworks support this approach and assess across the key tenets of sustainability, social, environmental, and financial capital. These are particularly helpful in understanding broader risks to business continuity and evaluating approaches that maximise outcomes across all assessed capital areas. Employing a capitals approach to business sustainability supports a systems-thinking mindset, building the understanding around interconnectedness.??

For a thriving future?

Whichever approach is utilised by an organisation, the fundamental objective is to create a thriving future. Within each business sector, company and individual, this future remains unwritten. Working to a framework must also include an implicit understanding of the need for agility, innovation, and experimentation to achieve the goals. Climate action to achieve global aims includes a degree of uncertainty that should be embraced and revisited as we work within the frameworks of sustainability.??

At Contented, we continue to guide and support clients with their sustainability journeys. We challenge norms, deepen client knowledge, and build their impact going forward.??