Peter Bakker, WBCSD President and CEO, wrote an introductory note for this publication in which he outlines the importance of 2016 as a "crucial year to build on the success of 2015 in which we saw the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement." In his view, these milestones "signal the need for a deep change in the way our economies work, and in the way our energy, mobility, urbanization, food and other systems contribute to planetary and societal well-being. Neither business nor government actions alone will be enough to deliver this transformation. We only stand a chance of realizing our goals if we all work together: government, cities, business, civil society and individuals."
The SDGs theme cuts across the report, particularly in relation to the business opportunities they bring for New Zealand, and how SBC can tap into this by advancing its strategy and ongoing sustainability activities. According to Mark Wilson, CEO Aviva Group and UK New Zealander of the year 2016, "the Sustainable Development Goals have some fine aspirations for the NZ$215 billion of overseas development assistance. But we've got to do much more to mobilize the NZ$425 trillion of capital in the financial markets - and get it invested in high-performing, resource-efficient and environmentally-friendly sustainable technology and infrastructure."
The report also gives insights from all of SBC's priority areas, including Sustainable Leadership, Climate & Resources, Ecosystem Health, Consumer Decision-Making, and Social Impact. In terms of organizational growth, over the past year, SBC has increased its corporate membership from 79 to 85. Twelve of New Zealand's 15 industry sectors are represented across the organization.
The WBCSD's Global Network is made up of more than 60 CEO-led business organizations worldwide, united by a shared commitment to provide business leadership for sustainable development in their respective countries and regions.
