Sustainability Ambition Remains Strong Among North American Professionals

TORONTO, Sept. 14, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- UN Global Compact Networks in Canada, Mexico, and the USA, in partnership with GlobeScan, have released a new study that reveals the resilience of corporate sustainability ambition among professionals in North America. Despite the mounting economic, political, and regulatory pressures, only 10 percent of the 276 sustainability professionals surveyed expect their organization's sustainability ambition to decrease.

This finding underscores the continued commitment of businesses to sustainability, even as they navigate complex challenges.

Business value is identified as the defining test for sustainability leadership, with 76 percent of respondents emphasizing the importance of connecting sustainability to business value. This means that industry leaders are expected to translate environmental and social priorities into strategic, operational, and financial decisions. The research also indicates that sustainability is moving closer to the core business strategy, with 61 percent of respondents prioritizing the embedding of sustainability into strategy and capital allocation.

The role of sustainability professionals is expanding beyond technical expertise. The study reveals the growing importance of influencing leadership, working across functions, and driving organizational change. This shift reflects a broader recognition of the multifaceted nature of sustainability work, which requires not only technical knowledge but also strategic acumen and leadership skills.

The research, which was presented at a virtual launch event on September 10, 2026, provides insights into the evolving landscape of corporate sustainability in North America. It suggests that organizations are becoming more selective in their focus, communication, and demonstration of progress. This selective approach is driven by a desire to maximize impact and align with the growing expectations of stakeholders.

The full report, which is now available for download, offers a comprehensive analysis of the current state of corporate sustainability in North America. It provides valuable insights for businesses, policymakers, and stakeholders interested in understanding the evolving role of sustainability professionals and the broader sustainability landscape.

This study comes at a critical time when businesses are increasingly under pressure to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. The findings suggest that despite the challenges, organizations are maintaining their ambition and are likely to continue pushing the boundaries of sustainability in the years to come.