Sustainability is no longer a ‘nice to have’, it’s a strategic imperative, says Chris Hopton, CEO, Ricoh UK and Northern Europe.
Governments throughout the world are reconsidering their climate change agendas. In recent months, many have adjusted, delayed or scaled back their environmental commitments.
From revised timelines for sustainability targets to changes in energy investment strategies, we’re seeing priorities shift away from climate action, often in response to economic pressures, political headwinds, or short-term public sentiment, raising concerns about the long-term implications for global climate goals. At a moment when consistent climate action is critical, this retreat risks slowing the momentum built over decades.
While governmental action reconsiders its position on environmental policy globally, there is an opportunity presenting itself to the private sector to step into the leadership gap and push climate action. Sustainability is no longer a nice to have, it’s a baseline expectation from customers, investors, employees and partners.
Business plays an important role in building a sustainable future. In many ways, businesses are better placed than governments to lead the charge. It shouldn’t be looked at as a box-ticking exercise, it should be central to how companies operate.
It’s no longer about simply doing the right thing; sustainability is now fundamental to business success. From attracting top talent to building brand trust, having (and sticking to) ESG commitments plays a vital role in enhancing resilience and reducing long-term risk.
Of course, governments play a critical role in setting the frameworks and incentives that drive large-scale environmental progress. But the reality is that business has always been more agile, more adaptable, and in many cases more ambitious when it comes to sustainability. While policy remains essential, the private sector has the agility, innovation, and scale to drive tangible change.
Economic headwinds and uncertainty can make long-term green investments feel daunting, but these challenges are why sustainability is so important. Building businesses that are environmentally and operationally resilient will help future-proof against volatility. For me, the key is to integrate environmental goals into the wider business strategy. Sustainability must be embedded across all operations, not treated as a side project or corporate social responsibility (CSR) exercise. It should be a blueprint for smarter, more sustainable growth.
With governments moving at different speeds, the private sector has an opportunity to show what’s possible by acting with purpose, ambition and urgency to advance sustainability goals quickly and effectively. Companies can use the influence they already have to enact real change and drive progress – not only in their own operations but across supply chains, industries and often public opinion. If the private sector can come together, we can create a new standard for sustainability.
Our commitment to the planet must be reflected in our decisions, our priorities, and our leadership, from the policies we support to the products we consume and the way we hold ourselves, businesses, and governments accountable.
During times of uncertainty, sustainable business practices should not be seen as optional but as a call to action that drives meaningful change. It’s a moment to reflect, re-energise, and re-commit to bold environmental progress, even when the global agenda feels fragmented, or progress seems slow.
