2025 CFO SUSTAINABILITY OUTLOOK SURVEY

CFOs See Benefits of Corporate Sustainability

Will sustainability be your company’s big growth opportunity?

Organizations are at a critical juncture in their sustainability journeys. While many organizations still treat corporate sustainability as a discrete initiative focused on meeting stakeholder expectations, companies taking a more strategic approach are seeing dramatically better results.

According to the 2025 CFO Sustainability Outlook Survey, a survey of 500 CFOs at U.S. businesses across the life sciences, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and technology industries, companies that integrate sustainability into their core business strategy are significantly more likely to project increased revenue and profitability compared to their peers.

The message is clear: sustainability is a key driver of business growth and competitive advantage. 

Explore how CFOs plan to tackle sustainability initiatives and ESG risks by reading the 2025 CFO Sustainability Outlook Survey.

Preview highlights from the full report below.

Report Highlights

The Business Case for Sustainability

Organizations report measurable returns from their corporate sustainability initiatives, from revenue growth to improved access to financing. These tangible benefits are reshaping how businesses view sustainability investments, shifting the conversation from "whether to invest" to "how much."

91% of organizations that are integrating sustainability strategically expect increased revenue in 2025 compared to just 74% of their peers.

How can you create long-term value from corporate sustainability? 

Read our insight to learn more about the business benefits of sustainability initiatives. 

21% of organizations are working to integrate sustainability initiatives into business strategy.

State of Sustainability Strategy

While companies pursuing a holistic approach to corporate sustainability project better business outcomes, most organizations still treat it as a siloed initiative. The difference in how companies approach corporate sustainability represents both a challenge and competitive risk.

Have you started your sustainability journey?  

Pave the Way for a Sustainable, Resilient Future

Sustainability in the New Administration

Businesses plan to maintain their corporate sustainability investments, despite expectations that federal climate policies will stall. They will focus on initiatives that deliver clear business value and provide tangible returns regardless of the political environment.

47% of CFOs believe their involvement in ESG strategy and execution will increase in the next 12 months.

Who should be steering the ESG ship? 

Learn more about the CFO’s role in ESG strategy.

A sustainable business is stronger, more responsive to stakeholder expectations, and more resilient to economic headwinds. When businesses move sustainability off the sidelines and integrate it into core business strategy, they create a strong offense –– unlocking innovative growth pathways while defending against shifting market conditions.
Karen Baum
Managing Principal; Sustainability & ESG Center of Excellence, BDO USA; Sustainability Services & Solutions, BDO Global