The New Rules of Sustainable Performance 2026

How leaders deliver for a business that performs and a world that flourishesrn

24 February 2026

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Sustainability in 2026 is a delivery problem. This report sets out what is changing, why it matters commercially, and the new rules leaders need to follow now to turn ambition into action.

The quick wins in sustainability have largely been had – what follows next is more structural and complex. This report looks at how to run decarbonisation, circularity, and regeneration initiatives as one connected effort, using empowerment as the red thread to move the needle simultaneously across multiple business functions, including procurement, capital, and data.

Why this matters now

Capital, regulation, and operating risk are converging inside the business. Boards and investors are asking for delivery with credible data and clear value logic. Organisations that join up decarbonisation, circularity, and regeneration, and empower people to act, will protect continuity, reduce volatility, and compete on performance.

Who this is for

This is essential reading for CEOs, CFOs, COOs, CSOs, Chief People Officers, CMOs, General Counsel, and senior sustainability leaders who need to organise for delivery and link sustainability to performance.