My professional journey into the environmental and sustainability space began when I took on my current role at Accenture. Although I had always harbored a general awareness of environmental issues, it was during this transition that my passion for sustainability truly came to life. Working at Accenture exposed me to a multitude of initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices at both local and global levels. Over the years, my career has evolved from simply being involved in these projects to actively leading and shaping them. The inspiration to focus on sustainability came from a deep-seated desire to make a tangible, positive difference in the world. I’ve always believed in creating a better, healthier planet not just for our generation but for those who will follow us. This sense of purpose has fueled my professional journey and continues to guide my decisions and ambitions.

Like any meaningful endeavor, the path to embedding sustainability into a corporate framework has not been without its challenges. One of the most persistent and significant hurdles I’ve faced is the need to balance traditional business objectives with sustainability goals. At times, it can be difficult to convince stakeholders of the long-term value of sustainable initiatives, especially when short-term profitability is at stake. However, I’ve found success by focusing on the broader benefits of these practices. Sustainable efforts, when implemented thoughtfully, often lead to cost savings, operational efficiencies, and a stronger brand reputation. By presenting data-driven cases and fostering open communication and collaboration, I’ve been able to align stakeholders around shared goals. Transparency and consistent messaging have played a pivotal role in overcoming resistance and in fostering a culture of acceptance and innovation.

Throughout my career, I’ve been proud to lead several impactful environmental projects designed to promote both biodiversity and sustainability. A major milestone has been the implementation of the Plastic-Free initiative across Accenture offices in the Middle East. This effort was aimed at eliminating single-use plastics from our operations, a move that significantly reduced our environmental footprint. Another notable endeavor has involved optimizing waste management and minimizing carbon emissions through innovative travel programs. These programs, while designed globally, are customized and deployed regionally based on available resources and infrastructure. By tailoring solutions to local conditions, we have been able to ensure maximum impact and feasibility across diverse geographies.

Engagement with local communities has been another cornerstone of our sustainability efforts. Promoting environmental awareness isn’t solely about internal operations; it’s about fostering change at a grassroots level. We have actively collaborated with local organizations to organize educational workshops and sustainability-focused events. These initiatives provide community members with practical knowledge and the tools they need to make environmentally responsible choices. Involving them directly in our projects helps foster a sense of ownership and shared responsibility. I’ve found that when people feel connected to a cause and see how their efforts contribute to a larger goal, their commitment and enthusiasm grow organically.

Technological innovation has been a powerful enabler in our sustainability journey. We’ve adopted renewable energy systems to power our facilities, and have embraced energy-efficient building designs to reduce overall consumption. In tandem with these structural upgrades, we’ve implemented waste reduction strategies that not only cut down on environmental impact but also reduce costs. One of the most transformative tools we use is data analytics. By tracking our performance and analyzing the outcomes of our initiatives, we can optimize our approach, identify new opportunities for improvement, and maintain accountability. The ability to make informed, data-backed decisions is critical to driving continuous progress.

Ensuring that our sustainability efforts align with global standards and certifications is another top priority. We regularly benchmark our practices against established frameworks such as ISO 14001 for environmental management and LEED for sustainable building design. This alignment not only enhances our credibility but also ensures we are meeting—and in many cases, exceeding—international expectations. To maintain these standards, we conduct regular internal reviews and invite third-party audits. These evaluations help us identify areas for improvement and maintain our commitment to transparency and excellence.

For business leaders looking to embark on or strengthen their sustainability journey, my advice is to start small but think big. Begin with clear, achievable goals and measure progress consistently. It’s crucial to engage employees and stakeholders at every step, as their buy-in is essential for long-term success. Communicate the tangible benefits of sustainability—whether they be financial, reputational, or operational—and stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies. The landscape is always evolving, and staying informed helps organizations remain agile and proactive.

Striking a balance between profitability and sustainability is an ongoing process, but one that is both achievable and rewarding. The key is to identify areas where sustainability drives efficiency and value creation. Whether through energy savings, improved resource management, or stronger stakeholder trust, sustainable practices can enhance the bottom line when executed strategically. Demonstrating this link between doing good and doing well is crucial for getting business leaders and shareholders on board.

Employee engagement is equally important in fostering a culture of sustainability. At Accenture, we motivate participation through a variety of initiatives, including training sessions, sustainability challenges, and internal recognition programs. We believe that empowering employees with knowledge and giving them opportunities to contribute builds a sense of purpose and belonging. When sustainability becomes part of an organization’s DNA, it no longer feels like an obligation—it becomes a source of pride and motivation.

Looking ahead, our vision at Accenture over the next five years is both ambitious and inspiring. We’ve set a clear goal to reduce our absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 80% from our fiscal year 2019 baseline, and to reduce our Scope 3 GHG emissions per unit of revenue by 55% by 2030. Achieving this will require a multi-faceted approach, including investment in cutting-edge technologies, setting bold internal targets, and maintaining a relentless focus on innovation. We are confident that with the right strategies and a shared commitment, we can reach these goals and set a benchmark for others in the industry.

Through all of these efforts, I am guided by a simple yet profound quote: “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” This reminder keeps me grounded in the purpose behind our work. Sustainability is not a trend or a business strategy—it is a responsibility. A responsibility to ensure that the choices we make today do not come at the cost of tomorrow. It is this belief that continues to inspire and energize me every day as I work to create a more sustainable, equitable future.