Henkel and B&B Hotels Stress ESG for Competitive Edge

Sustainability has moved from a voluntary add‑on to a core business requirement. Experts say firms that fail to embed environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria risk losing capital, reputation and talent. Dr. Carmelo Santillán Ramos, CEO of CSR Consulting, warned that "sustainability will determine who stays in the market over the next decade." Henkel has set 2030 targets to cut scope 1‑2 emissions by 42 % and scope 3 by 30 %, and aims for gender balance of over 45 % in senior roles. A study cited shows 34 % of employees consider leaving when ESG actions clash with personal values, while firms with genuine ESG integration see 30 % lower voluntary turnover.

In the hotel sector, B&B HOTELS is applying a "Smart Simplicity" model that ties sustainability to guest experience. Its strategy focuses on people and society, environmental adaptation, and sustainable innovation. The chain pledges a 50 % reduction in absolute scope 1‑2 CO₂ emissions by 2030 versus 2019, targeting energy use, laundry operations and breakfast services. Transparency, measurable goals and integrating sustainability from design are presented as essential to building trust and reputation in the tourism destination.