New global research from YPO – a global leadership community of more than 35,000 chief executives in 150 countries united by the belief that better leadership can drive positive global change – shows that CEOs worldwide are putting climate and environmental action at the heart of their long-term business goals.
In a year when the climate crisis is front and centre on global and boardroom agendas, business leaders across continents are aligning legacy with impact – and the environment is at the top of the list. According to the latest YPO Global Impact Report, positive environmental impact has emerged as the number one legacy priority for businesses worldwide. The survey, representing insights from the 35,000-strong YPO global network – leaders of companies generating a combined $9 trillion in revenue and employing over 22 million people – offers a revealing look into the evolving values and climate ambitions of the world’s top CEOs.
POSITIVE ACTION TOWARDS A GREEN LEGACY
Across Asia, Africa, South America and Europe, approximately 40% of CEOs rank environmental stewardship and reducing pollution or emissions as their organisation’s top legacy priority. In Oceania, the priority is split evenly between environmental action and sustainable infrastructure development (both at 29%). Meanwhile, North American leaders are emphasizing responsible investment and resource management.
“Business is a powerful force for positive action,” stated Sofyan Almoayed, YPO Global Chairman. “This report shows that our members care deeply about the next generation. The intersection of legacy and positive impact is driving our companies forward.”
CLIMATE ACTION COMMITMENTS
Among the six continents surveyed, South America is leading on almost every front of climate commitment:
- 70% have a formal decarbonization strategy
- 54% have short-term GHG reduction targets
- 61% have full-time sustainability leaders
- 45% have a net-zero goal aligned with the 2050 pathway
As anticipation builds for COP30 in the Amazon Rainforest this November, this data underscores the continent’s growing role in shaping global sustainability standards.
“We believe the path to net zero is not just a necessity but a business opportunity for innovation and growth,” noted Angel Lance, founder of Motive Power and 10/6 Professional Services. “This report gives me heart – YPO leaders are taking real ownership of climate action, even in complex political and regulatory environments.”
NET-ZERO GOALS
Globally, just 21% of YPO member companies have a formal net-zero goal, a figure that nonetheless doubles the global corporate average of 8%. However, only 14% have a target aligned with the Paris Agreement, covering all three emissions scopes (Scope 1, 2, and material Scope 3).
The data also shows that larger businesses are further ahead:
- 60% of companies with 500+ employees have short-term carbon reduction targets.
- Only 21% of small companies (<150 employees) do.
- Consumer goods and renewable energy sectors lead on setting these targets, while healthcare lags behind.
CLIMATE GAPS & NEED FOR ACCELERATION
Despite pockets of progress, 68% of surveyed businesses still lack a short-term greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target – a critical gap if global ambitions to cap warming at 1.5°C are to be met. By region, the readiness varies dramatically:
- Short-term carbon targets: South America (54%), Europe (47%), Asia (46%), Africa (38%), North America (20%), Oceania (10%)
- Full-time sustainability leaders: South America (61%), Europe (47%), Asia (29%), Africa (24%), North America (19%), Oceania (14%)
“The findings highlight where we need to push harder,” said Le Thi Thu Thuy, Vice Chairwoman of Vietnam’s Vingroup. “At VinFast, we’re showing that sustainable innovation can win in the marketplace. EVs are now outselling gas-powered cars in Vietnam – proof that climate-friendly business can also be market-leading.”
LOOKING AHEAD
While global disparities remain, the report paints a picture of a business community increasingly unified by purpose, especially within the YPO network. As leaders gather for the YPO Global Impact Summit in Vietnam – marking the organization’s 75th year – the focus is on tangible action.
“Chief executives aren’t outsourcing sustainability – they’re owning it,” added Angel Lance. “Together, we can redefine what business success looks like.”
With the climate clock ticking and COP30 looming, the business world has both an opportunity and a responsibility. YPO’s latest data suggests many of the world’s most influential CEOs are choosing to lead. Click here to read the full report.
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