CSR Press Release

- January 21, 2009 -

What: "The Green Gap: Avoiding Pitfalls on the Sustainability Path to Shareholder Value"

When: Available immediately

Where: www.deloitte.com/us/greengap

Details: Doing good for the environment and society has long differentiated consumer product companies. Whether driven by consumer interest, rising commodity prices, retailer requirements, or pending legislation, senior executives are beginning to make sustainability a top agenda item. The markets agree—according to a 2008 study by the Economist Intelligence Unit, companies that embrace sustainability have achieved the highest share price growth over the past three years whereas companies with the worst performance focused less on sustainability.

Given increasing pressures from a multitude of stakeholders, including consumers, retailers, regulators and non-profit organizations, it is clear why so many companies are marching down the sustainability path. What will differentiate those organizations who realize environmental and social benefits while delivering shareholder value is the strategic foundation they rely upon to avoid the pitfalls. It is clear the cost of doing nothing is too great, but what pitfalls exist for companies on the path to sustainability?

This Deloitte white paper explores nine pitfalls companies should consider to ensure their sustainability efforts are delivering shareholder value. The pitfalls explored include:

• Pitfall #1: Confusion from the start
  
• Pitfall #2: The missing link—organizational DNA
  
• Pitfall #3: Pursuing without priorities
  
• Pitfall #4: Baseless progress
  
• Pitfall #5: Lifecycle analysis paralysis
  
• Pitfall #6: The lone rider
  
• Pitfall #7: Lacking leadership
  
• Pitfall #8: Communicating too early or not at all
  
• Pitfall #9: Betting on the consumer

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