The Cost of Silence 2025

16 July 2025

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How many times have we heard it? That sustainability initiatives are being deprioritised – pushed down the agenda by competing demands and persistent doubt over their financial return.

Now, with our new report, The Cost of Silence, we finally have the data to respond decisively. Based on three years of analysis across 500 companies and 16 sectors, this research shows that environmental action isn’t a reputational luxury – it’s a driver of commercial performance.

Our data shows a clear correlation between environmental action and business performance:

Companies with strong environmental performance see up to 6% higher EBITDA than their peers
Up to 31% of the reputational advantage held by market leaders comes down to how they are perceived on sustainability
And yet, 79% of companies are still risking that advantage, either by overstating their efforts or staying silent altogether

A 6% uplift in earnings is not a matter of ideology – it’s a strategic priority; therefore, the choice to remain silent can no longer be considered a neutral decision. Sustainability is a lever for financial growth and a cornerstone of reputation. This report gives business leaders the evidence they need to act boldly and speak with confidence.

This report doesn’t just quantify impact. It shows where to focus, what to say, and how to avoid the risks of greenwashing or greenhushing. For anyone responsible for sustainability, reputation, growth, or all three, this is essential reading.

Inside The Cost of Silence, you’ll find:

Strategic recommendations to align action with communications
A breakdown of the financial returns linked to environmental performance
Sector-by-sector data on which issues matter most
Insights into the risks of under- or over-communicating sustainability

Download the Cost of Silence Report

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Take the next step

We work with teams to translate insight into strategy:

1. In-Depth Executive Briefings

We guide you through the report findings and their relevance to your sector, helping you prioritise where sustainability delivers the greatest business return.

2. Bespoke Sustainability Benchmarking

Our analysts produce tailored reports comparing your sustainability actions and reputational positioning to key competitors—highlighting where and how to improve.

3. Strategic Communications Development

With clear opportunities identified, we help you shape a communications strategy that builds trust and ensures your sustainability efforts are both credible and compelling.

Explore our Brand Purpose solutions