Per this article, here are 10 things that should be on your 2026 to-do list:

 

  • Corporate sustainability reporting moves into delivery mode – The EU’s CSRD becomes reality. If you operate in the EU, the time has come.
  • UK sustainability reporting and climate risk integration – The UK SRS final version is expected in a few weeks. If so, the time has come in the UK also.
  • Climate transition plans move from ‘nice to have’ to critical – Even where not regulated, climate transition plans are now expected by regulators, investors, customers, lenders and potential employees.
  • Strengthening supply chain environmental due diligence – If you are a vendor, expect the call. If you are a client procurement officer, expect the internal memo to make the call.
  • Carbon pricing and CBAM reshape trade and procurement – As a supplier, including emissions data in your product/service offering will become mandatory. Having a certified position that you can validate will become essential.
  • Packaging, products, and circular economy rules accelerate – In August 2026 the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) kicks in. The EU Circular Economy Act is also expected this year.  Be warned.
  • Nature and biodiversity move to mainstream – Including nature as an asset and incorporating it into the strategic plan/execution will grow.
  • Green claims and litigation risk intensify – As the above demands grow, more pressure mounts for companies to make green claims. Many of those claims will not be attached, and 3rd party verified, to a legitimate environmental standard.  Without same, the door is open for activists and governments to take legal action, with a 67% success rate.
  • From commitments to real net zero delivery – 2026 is expected to be the year when organizations that have been promising action, start to show progress toward net zero goals. This will require certification and 3rd party verification.
  • Chemical regulation compliance as a strategic business risk – You don’t have to be a chemical manufacturer to be at risk of chemical regulations. If you are a user of chemicals in your business, you are at risk.  Developing a documented plan with a 3rd party advisor is critical if you use chemicals in your business.

 

If you want some help with the above, read this on what you want in a sustainability program, watch this master class, and contact us.