Purpose Pulse

From Compliance to Competitive Edge

May 2025

There’s a big shift taking place.

One that’s transforming how sustainability is viewed; not just as a moral imperative, but as a route to resilience, profitability and long-term growth. Even as alternative narratives dominate headlines here and elsewhere, the real story is clear.

The pushback we’re seeing is a sign of progress. Change is already happening - and it’s accelerating.

The figures speak for themselves. The so called Net Zero economy continues to outpace the traditional and drives innovation, investment and creates well-paid jobs.

And businesses across all sectors are reaping the benefits.

In fact, a recent study shows that 72% of UK manufacturers reported increased profitability as a result of more sustainable operations. 84% consider sustainability a top priority.

Businesses leading the way

They are doing more than hitting targets; they’re redefining what’s possible.

Take CemVision, a Swedish startup creating ultra-low carbon cement by repurposing industrial waste. They’re helping to slash emissions in one of the most carbon-intensive industries - without sacrificing performance.

Or Floral Energy, a microgrid energy start-up founded by former Rolls-Royce executives. They are supporting high energy businesses such as data centres, EV supercharging hubs, hospitals and industrial sites with reliable and sustainable off-grid energy solutions.

And closer to home, Axter, a B Corp-certified roofing company is launching the UK’s first Carbon Literacy course for roofing installers - a bold move in a traditional sector. And we are proud to say that we’ve been supporting them all the way. Watch this space.

From Obligation to Opportunity

This at a time when the rules around what makes something ‘sustainable’ are shifting fast and hard. This includes the updated Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) enforced by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) which came into force in May 2025. They are driving transparency and significant change already.

But, as so often is the case, while compliance may be the catalyst, competitive edge is quickly becoming the real prize. Businesses that want to get ahead are using this moment to build trust and unlock opportunities.

Different leadership lens

These shifts call for a different type of leadership.

At COM-2, former ad man Jon Miller spoke powerfully about how businesses can navigate this new reality and come out on top.

Hosted by ‘Can Marketing Save the Planet’, the event highlighted how the tipping points for green technologies have already arrived and businesses need to catch-up fast.

While some headlines hone in on backsliding and affordability fears, the reality is that clean, sustainable operations are quickly becoming mainstream.

So much so that it’s the filter through which customers, investors and talent are deciding who to trust and who to choose.

‘Getting going’ is not about staying out of trouble. It’s about staying in the game, as our American friends would say.

Our recommendations this month

Be inspired:

Legacy Makers - A new podcast by award-winning author and PR strategist Sangeeta Waldron and former Al Jazeera English MD Giles Trendle.

In episode one, they speak with to We Don't Have Time founder Ingmar Rentzhog about the "Make Science Great Again" campaign and battling misinformation.

Smarter solutions:

MeasureUP - A free, easy-to-use tool to assess your business’s environmental and social impact - and identify what to improve.

Connect:

People, Planet, Pint - An informal get-together with likeminded folk all over the UK (and beyond!). And if you can't find one near you - host your own!