Turning data into resilience: Rethinking sustainability in supply chains

During the keynote from Verdantix, one message stood out: organizations are only as sustainable as their supply chains. In the face of increasing regulatory pressure, global disruptions, and rising expectations from stakeholders, supply chain resilience is becoming a strategic imperative.

Verdantix shared data from their latest survey (Verdantix Global Corporate Survey 2024) that 89 percent of firms now embed ESG and sustainability criteria directly into their supplier selection processes and contracts. This shift is driven by a growing understanding of the tangible business benefits:

• 78% say ESG investments reduce costs
• 82% believe they increase revenue
• 90% confirm they lower business risks

What’s also clear is that transparency and traceability have become central drivers for action. In the past year alone, 63% of companies invested in sustainability to improve supply chain visibility, 60% did so in response to external pressures, and over half were reacting to supply chain disruptions.

Building a resilient supply chain goes beyond meeting individual compliance requirements. It requires a clear strategic vision, early and ongoing stakeholder engagement, alignment with operational needs, and strong technical foundations. Above all, it takes the ability to implement at scale — without losing sight of the bigger picture.

Verdantix reminded us that sustainability is not just a reporting exercise. It’s a capability to be built — with the right data, partners, and decisions.