Survey of sustainability managers in organisations (November 2023)
Background and structure
We asked sustainability managers/consultants what their biggest challenges and frustrations are in their job, what solutions they see, and what knowledge and skills they consider necessary to do their job well. To this end, we conducted a survey with open and closed questions about the everyday work of sustainability and CSR managers.
The survey was shared in various sustainability networks and posted on social media. In the end, 27 people completed the survey. Our evaluation is based on their answers and assessments. Here we present the evaluated and processed results of the survey.
The results are incorporated into the continuing education programme ‘Transformation Knowledge for Climate Heroes’ offered by our partner, the EQU:WIN Academy.
More information is available here:
The biggest challenges in implementing sustainable practices
(question 1):
bei der Umsetzung nachhaltiger Praktiken
We asked more detailed questions (question 2):
What other challenges are anticipated?
Stress factors (question 3)
What factors have the potential to lead to burnout or excessive stress when working in the field of sustainability?
What causes you to burn out?
Possible solutions (question 4)
We not only identified the challenges, but also actively sought solutions. In doing so, we analysed the knowledge and skills required to successfully overcome these challenges and promote sustainable working practices.
What specific knowledge is required for this? (Question 5)
Survey participants emphasised that a deep understanding of the impact of climate change on our existence over the next 50 years is crucial. They stressed the importance of environmental science and global ecological interrelationships in order to make informed decisions.
But it's about more than just knowledge. Our participants emphasised the importance of agile working methods and modern leadership cultures in driving change processes forward.
This includes not only knowledge of agile working and agile project management, but also the ability to initiate and lead change processes. A fundamental understanding of transformation processes and the ability to implement them operationally are of great importance here.
Communication skills and persuasion processes also play a key role. The ability to convey complex issues in an understandable way and to persuade stakeholders is crucial to the success of sustainable initiatives.
Psychological and social skills such as empathy, courage and resilience are also essential.
Successful change management requires the ability to involve, motivate and support employees, as well as to establish and maintain networks.
Do you require assistance with these topics?
Visit our partner EQU:WIN Consulting for further training in transformation knowledge for sustainability managers/consultants..