Summary

This month’s sustainability reflections span some of the most pressing themes in the sector, from the rise of the next generation of sustainability leaders to the ongoing debate around stakeholder engagement, global climate policy shifts in China, and the practical realities of Scope 3 emissions in corporate supply chains. Across podcasts and articles, a common thread emerges: sustainability thinking is becoming more critical, more complex, and more globally interconnected. 

This is what I've been listening to and reading across the sustainability spectrum this March:

 

The Next Generation of Sustainability Professionals Is Ready—and Watching


I always enjoy listening to two of our industry leaders, Solitaire Townsend and Joel Makower, on their Two Steps Forward podcast. Given our shared interest in developing the next generation of sustainability leaders, I was particularly struck by their conversation with three young professionals in the field, which you can listen to on the Two Steps Forward podcast.

 
Why It’s Time to Rethink ‘Stakeholder Engagement’ in Sustainability


The piece that made me think most this month was a Trellis Group article by Alison Taylor, exploring whether the sustainability profession’s frequent reliance on the concept of “stakeholder engagement” is still useful.

Alison argues persuasively that the term has become too vague and fails to reflect the reality of diverse and sometimes conflicting interests. It’s well worth reading her article on Trellis Group and reflecting on whether your current stakeholder activities still stand up to scrutiny.

 
What China’s Five-Year Plan Means for Climate Policy and Energy Transition


Much of the recent focus on climate and sustainability has centred on the United States and the actions of the Trump administration. However, what’s happening in China—particularly in relation to the energy transition and climate technology—may be even more significant.

The Chatham House Environment and Society Climate Briefing podcast provides a clear and concise overview of China’s latest Five-Year Plan. For further insight, the BBC’s The Climate Question explores China’s green energy revolution and its wider implications.

 
Can Cutting Methane Emissions Quickly Slow Global Warming?


On our Cambridge Marketing College Get Carbon Literate one-day course, we discuss the importance of addressing the full range of greenhouse gases, not just carbon dioxide. That’s why I’m always interested in new thinking around methane emissions.

The BBC’s The Climate Question podcast does an excellent job of highlighting both the challenges and opportunities associated with reducing methane, offering a compelling perspective on how quickly it could impact global warming.

 
Scope 3 Emissions: The Supplier Perspective in Corporate Sustainability


I always value the conversations hosted by Tom Idle and Oliver Hurrey on The Scope 3 Podcast. A recent episode featuring John Hale stood out, particularly for its insights into what it’s like to operate within corporate supply chains as a small or medium-sized enterprise.

It’s a useful and timely perspective for anyone involved in Scope 3 discussions, especially when considering the real-world impact of sustainability demands on suppliers.

 

About Sustainability InSight

'Sustainability InSight' is my regular roundup of recent insightful sustainability content. My aim is to improve understanding and knowledge across the sustainability spectrum - not just the environment and climate change - to help us all lead a more sustainable life. If you see any content that you'd recommend, then just let me know.

I am a tutor at Cambridge Marketing College, where we are committed to developing a variety of resources, courses and apprenticeships around sustainability and corporate responsibility. If you'd like to know more, contact us at info@marketingcollege.com.

Until the next edition of Sustainability InSight.

Nigel