Corporate sustainability has become a buzzword in recent years, but what does it actually mean? Understanding the vocabulary of sustainability is crucial for business leaders who want to make a positive impact on the world and ensure the long-term success of their company.

Here are some of the key terms you need to know:

Sustainability: This refers to the ability of a system to continue functioning without depleting natural resources or causing harm to the environment. In a business context, it means ensuring that the company operates in a way that is environmentally and socially responsible, while also being economically viable.

Triple Bottom Line (TBL): This concept refers to the three pillars of sustainability: economic, social, and environmental. A business that prioritizes the TBL is committed to creating value for all stakeholders, including shareholders, employees, customers, and the planet.

Carbon footprint: This refers to the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by a company or individual. A low carbon footprint is a key aspect of sustainability, as it helps reduce the impact of climate change.

Circular economy: This term refers to an economic system where waste and pollution are minimized, and resources are used and reused in a closed loop. The goal of a circular economy is to create a more sustainable and resilient economy, where natural resources are used efficiently.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): This refers to the responsibilities of a company to society and the environment. This includes initiatives like reducing waste, supporting local communities, and promoting ethical business practices.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing: This refers to an investment approach that considers environmental, social, and governance factors in addition to financial performance. ESG investing has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more investors look for ways to align their investments with their values.

Net-zero: This refers to a state where the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced is equal to the amount removed from the atmosphere. The goal of net-zero is to achieve a zero-carbon footprint, in order to reduce the impact of climate change.