Developing Value: The Business Case for Sustainability in Emerging Markets Book

This is the first study focusing on the opportunties for integrating sustainability into businesses in emerging markets. It presents new evidence, based on 240 case studies across 60 countries, on the business case for sustainability: sound economic, environmental, and social performance creating financial value for the firm. The report highlights that companies worldwide have undertaken actions which contribute to social development or environmental improvements. As a result, many have reduced costs, increased revenues, found new markets, improved access to capital, addressed risks, or achieved other business benefits. The business case is a key tool to help achieve sustainability globally. While past studies have examined the business case in developed economies, this study breaks new ground with its focus on emerging markets. It is the result of a unique collaboration between the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group; the strategy consultancy SustainAbility; and the Ethos Institute in Brazil. Focusing on sustainability efforts in firms from Latin America, Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, this report highlights the major benefits to businesses that followed as a result of their action on sustainability, how firms achieved those benefits, and the challenges they faced. A "must-read" for: business owners and managers trying to assess the risks and bottom-line implications of sustainability strategies; for investors wanting to incorporate sustainability criteria in investment decisions; for civil society organizations working with the private sector to promote sustainability; for governments seeking to identify how to support voluntary business action; and for the international community striving to understand the emerging markets context for sustainability.Read More