Starting a journey towards corporate sustainability involves having a commitment, clear goals, and metrics that drive improvement and achieve greater objectives constantly. It is essential to change the mindset and see the business as an agent that creates economic, social, and environmental value. To embark on this journey, it is necessary to have the committed leadership of the organization's top executives.
The process of evolving towards responsibility to society and the environment can seem overwhelming at first, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises competing in a demanding environment. There are new demands from society, consumers, regulators, and large companies seeking suppliers aligned with ESG standards. In this scenario, the essential question arises: where to start?
This question was the central theme at the II ESG Forum organized by the Secretariat of Equality and Inclusion of the Government of the State of Nuevo León, which included renowned companies. Although the importance of sustainability is widely recognized as a path towards more profitable and competitive businesses, taking the first steps is crucial and challenging.
To begin the path towards sustainability, the first step is to change the company's vision and understand it as an entity that generates value for various stakeholders. It is necessary to define the key issues that lie at the intersection of goals, risks, interests of stakeholders, and potential impacts on the organization's future. Committing, tracking progress, and openly communicating these commitments are fundamental actions in the process.
A materiality approach can serve as a solid foundation, allowing the organization to identify its priorities and set clear and achievable goals. It is vital that this commitment is shared and that efforts are focused on sustainability as a pathway to long-term competitiveness and resilience. Setting concrete goals aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals is an excellent starting point. Finally, measuring progress continuously is essential to improve and advance on this route towards corporate sustainability.
