Story | 23 Sep, 2015

Sustainable Development Goals recognise role of business

The United Nations' new development agenda presents a historic opportunity for the private sector to actively participate in addressing the world’s global challenges, and building a more inclusive and sustainable society.  

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Photo: oneorg

For the first time, the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognise the key role of business and the finance community in achieving these ambitious targets, which aim to alleviate poverty, advance equality and protect the environment.

The SDGs are also an occasion for companies to raise the bar in terms of environmental and social standards, and align their future business strategies, actions and reporting with this new roadmap for development.

IUCN is participating in the UN Sustainable Development Summit being held 25-27 September 2015 in New York, as well as the UN Private Sector Forum on 26 September. During the Forum, the UN Global Compact, Global Reporting Initiative and World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) – an IUCN member – will launch the SDG Compass, an implementation guide for businesses to help them in assessing their impacts and strategies based on the SDGs.

Earlier this year, the International Chamber of Commerce released a new Business Charter for Sustainable Development which also provides a framework for businesses to use in shaping their sustainable plans.

These are among the first of a myriad efforts underway to ensure that business fulfils this critical role in helping to implement the SDGs between now and 2030.

To find out more about IUCN’s engagement with business, contact us; or learn more about IUCN’s involvement in the SDG process.