Module 6: Communicating Sustainability Efforts, Goals, and Progress

Description

This lesson explores how to communicate sustainability efforts, goals, and progress in a way that builds trust, supports business objectives, and meets stakeholder expectations. Participants will learn how to tailor sustainability communications for different audiences and ensure claims are clear, credible, and legally defensible. The session will cover how to avoid greenwashing and greenhushing while applying best practices that build trust, engagement, and long-term credibility. It also provides guidance on best practices for creating clear, credible, and engaging sustainability messages that strengthen stakeholder relationships and support long-term business value. 

Learning Objectives

1. Be able to explain the business drivers and strategic purpose of sustainability communication, including how effective communication supports transparency, stakeholder trust, and organizational goals. 

2. Identify legal and reputational risks associated with sustainability claims, including greenwashing and greenhushing, and recognize when legal consultation may be appropriate. 

3. Apply a stakeholder-focused approach to sustainability communication by tailoring messages, channels, timing, and level of detail for audiences such as employees, boards, investors, supply chain partners, policymakers, consumers, and the media. 

4. Implement best practices for sustainability communication by creating messages that are clear, credible, audience-focused, and supported by transparent and verifiable information. 

Speakers

Angela Waters

Berlin-based journalist and editor specialized in areas such as breaking news, business reporting, and arts & culture features. Extensive experience in cross-cultural projects and diverse working environments.