The latest edition of annual survey conducted by GlobeScan / ERM Sustainability Institute highlighted a growing concern among sustainability experts for various environmental challenges. Nearly 500 experts from 65 different countries shared their insights, focusing on the priorities and forces that are shaping the agenda of Sustainable Development.
Almost all interviewees (94%) consider the climate change as the most critical challenge. Over 80% of experts believe that the loss of biodiversitythe deforestationthe water scarcityl’water pollution and the food safety are among the most urgent issues. These five challenges are closely linked to climate change. In particular, the perceived urgency surrounding food security has increased significantly over the past five years, suggesting that the growing severity of this challenge is directly linked to climate change, water scarcity and other interconnected sustainability issues.
Experts stressed the need to address the interconnected challenges of climate change, nature and food/nutrition. Interconnected problems require integrated solutions by governments, businesses and civil society. These solutions must be based on holistic approaches, collaboration, policy integration, business innovation e strengthening of communities.
The survey also explored sustainability leadership among governments, NGOs and companies, tracking priority issues and recent developments. This multidimensional approach highlights the importance of an integrated strategy to effectively address the challenges of the Sustainable Development in the current global context.
