Here are six big predictions for 2026 from Rory Burghes of Capgemini Invent.
Let’s look at them as ideas for your company.
The era of authenticity
Performative messaging is out, radical transparency is in. In effect, it is ok to admit you are not perfect, but you need to show progress – real, measurable sustainability steps.
Question: Is your company capable of showing its sustainability commitment?
Sustainability as a business imperative
The business case for sustainability will continue to progress from moral obligation to strategic fundamental value creation – profitability, efficiency, and cost savings.
Question: Is your 2026 Plan using sustainability for value creation?
The shift towards greener data centers
AI’s environmental footprint will prompt greater caution in 2026 and finding ways to lessen the damage caused by these data centers will be a key focus and opportunity.
Question: Does your company have an opportunity to contribute to this?
Adaptation becomes the norm
As climate volatility creates more insurance exposure and financial risk, climate adaptation will shift from a contingency plan to a core business strategy in 2026.
Question: Does your 2026 budget include climate-related costs and actions?
Sustainability becomes a growth strategy
In 2026, sustainability will no longer be viewed as a cost center – it will be recognized as a driver of business value.
Question: Does your 2026 Plan have CapEx investment for sustainability growth projects?
Designing AI with sustainability in mind
Given the huge energy consumption and environmental damage of AI, businesses will be looking to move from reactive mitigation to proactive integration of sustainability principles when they come to develop AI.
Question: If your company is a user of AI, will you be hiring a sustainability consultant to help you design your AI process to be environmentally friendly?
Question: If you are an AI provider, will you find a sustainability consultant to partner with, allowing you to enhance your offering?