The Sustainability Reset: What Investors Expect in 2026
- Jun 16
- 1 min read
CEN's Chris Dyett and Jasper Crone join Black Sun's Ian Roe to discuss the evolution of the sustainability agenda and how investor expectations continue to develop.
While sustainability is being discussed differently today, companies should not mistake it for declining in importance. The challenge for corporates is no longer simply collecting data or publishing disclosures. Investors, customers, regulators and other stakeholders increasingly want to understand how sustainability considerations influence strategy, risk management, operational resilience and long-term value creation.
The Evolution of Expectations
Since 2020, sustainability reporting and disclosure have progressed through several distinct phases, from establishing a baseline standard of expectations for reporting processes through to demonstrating progress and commercial relevance. This journey has largely been reflected in investor expectations today.
In 2026 investors are increasingly focused on outcomes rather than intentions. They want to understand whether meaningful progress is made and how sustainability issues affect financial performance, as well as future risks and opportunities. Commercial exposure, operational resilience and strategic execution are all measured through the lens of sustainability.
At the same time, companies increasingly drive sustainability requirements throughout their supply chains, creating growing expectations around data quality, reporting, target setting and transparency. The result is a more mature sustainability landscape, where corporates are expected to prioritise what matters most and demonstrate how sustainability supports broader business objectives.
To hear the full discussion and key insights from the panel, please see the below:
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