Year in Review: Top 250 Companies in Sustainability
2024 has been a landmark year for sustainability, as businesses worldwide face mounting pressure to combat climate change and adopt greener practices.
From ambitious climate pledges to revolutionary green technologies, companies are taking sustainability to the next level.
This year has seen a surge in innovation, collaboration and accountability, with businesses demonstrating that it is possible to prioritise the planet without sacrificing profitability.
At our inaugural Global Sustainability & Net Zero Awards, which took place in London during September, we recognised the dedication and innovation present in the industry.
Then, to further commemorate the achievements made this year, we published our special Top 250 Companies in Sustainability magazine, available to read here.
"The 2024 Top 250 Companies in Sustainability highlights the most sustainable companies in the world at a time when this issue is both urgent and prominent," says Glen White, CEO of BizClik, the parent company of Sustainability Magazine.
Georgia Collins, Director of Content Strategy at BizClik, adds: "Achieving a sustainable future will require a collaborative effort across governments, businesses, education and society."
"In this year's Top 250, we're honouring the powerhouses driving the sustainability movement and leading the charge when it comes to innovation, strategy and development."
Here, we look at the those companies that topped the bill in 2024.
10. Nike
Industry: Sportswear and Apparel
Country: United States
Value: US$190bn
CSO: Noel Kinder
Nike has laced up for the sustainability race. Known for its Move to Zero initiative, Nike has embraced renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions and waste.
Its Flyknit technology, made from recycled materials, exemplifies innovation in sustainable design.
Over the decades, Nike has transformed from a mere sportswear giant to a leader in environmental stewardship, committing to zero carbon and zero waste for a sustainable future.
9. Accenture
Industry: Consulting and Professional Services
Country: Ireland
Value: US$215bn
Global Sustainability Services Lead: Stephanie Jamison
Accenture accelerates sustainability by helping clients integrate eco-friendly strategies into their operations.
With its Science-Based Targets initiative and commitment to net-zero emissions by 2025, the company leads by example.
Historically, Accenture’s expertise has shifted from business solutions to holistic environmental strategies, proving that tech-driven innovation can harmonise with sustainability goals.
8. Adobe
Industry: Technology and Software
Country: USA
Value: US$240bn
CSO: Jolene Iyer
Adobe creates more than just digital magic, it crafts a sustainable legacy. With 100% renewable energy powering its global operations, Adobe is carbon-neutral and focused on water conservation.
Adobe’s products, like Acrobat and Photoshop, enable digital transformation, reducing paper waste worldwide.
From its eco-conscious roots in the early 2000s, Adobe has consistently reimagined how technology can reduce environmental footprints.
7. Salesforce
Industry: Technology and Cloud Computing
Country: USA
Value: US$215bn
Chief Impact Officer: Suzanne DiBianca
Salesforce champions sustainability with its Net Zero Cloud platform, allowing businesses to track and reduce their emissions.
A trailblazer in corporate responsibility, Salesforce operates with 100% renewable energy and has integrated sustainability into its DNA.
Its history of environmental advocacy showcases how a tech leader can shape a greener tomorrow.
6. Google
Industry: Technology and Internet Services
Country: USA
Value: US$1.67tn
CSO: Kate Brandt
Google’s commitment to sustainability started early with its carbon-neutral pledge in 2007. Now, it aims to run entirely on carbon-free energy by 2030.
The company’s investments in renewable energy and innovations like AI-driven energy efficiency tools make it a global environmental leader.
Google’s bold ambition to decarbonise its supply chain reflects its historical emphasis on technology as a force for good.
5. Apple
Industry: Technology and Consumer Electronics
Country: USA
Value: US$3tn
CSO: Lisa Jackson
Apple is re-engineering sustainability. Through its Apple’s 2030 initiative, the tech titan plans to make every product carbon neutral.
Its closed-loop manufacturing process, using recycled materials like aluminium and rare earth elements, sets it apart.
Apple is also investing heavily in renewable energy projects, ensuring that its supply chain is as green as its products.
With decades of environmental innovation, from the early adoption of solar-powered facilities to advanced recycling robots like Daisy, Apple’s story is one of continuous improvement, challenging the status quo with each sleek, sustainable product.
The company’s influence extends beyond its own operations, encouraging suppliers and consumers alike to prioritise sustainability.
4. Microsoft
Industry: Technology and Software
Country: USA
Value: US$2.6tn
CSO: Melanie Nakagawa
Microsoft is leading the charge with its ambitious goal to become carbon negative by 2030.
The company’s Climate Innovation Fund, worth US$1bn, supports projects combating climate change globally.
Microsoft’s advanced AI tools and cloud services empower businesses to monitor and reduce their environmental impact.
Beyond carbon negativity, Microsoft is also working to replenish more water than it consumes and to achieve zero waste across its operations.
With a storied history of technological firsts, Microsoft has evolved into a sustainability powerhouse, leveraging its scale and resources to champion a greener future.
Its emphasis on collaboration with governments, NGOs and industry leaders cements its role as a key player in global environmental efforts.
3. IKEA
Industry: Retail and Home Furnishings
Country: Sweden
Value: US$58bn
CSO: Karen Pflug
IKEA makes sustainability a household affair. Its pledge to use only renewable or recycled materials by 2030 aligns with its circular economy model.
The retailer has invested billions in renewable energy, owning wind farms and solar parks globally to power its operations.
Historically, IKEA has revolutionised affordable furniture. Today, it’s reshaping the industry with green energy investments and energy-efficient designs.
IKEA’s ambition extends to making sustainable living accessible to everyone, with products like water-saving taps and energy-efficient lighting.
Sustainability isn’t just a strategy for IKEA — it’s a lifestyle deeply rooted in its Scandinavian heritage.
2. Schneider Electric
Industry: Energy Management and Automation
Country: France
Value: US$90bn
CSO: Sorouch Kheradmand
Schneider Electric powers the sustainability revolution.
With cutting-edge solutions for energy efficiency and smart grids, it’s driving the transition to renewable energy worldwide.
The company’s EcoStruxure platform integrates sustainability into infrastructure design, allowing businesses to optimise energy usage.
Schneider Electric’s commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2025 and achieving net-zero by 2040 is unmatched.
Its legacy of innovation, dating back to the 19th century, underscores its leadership in making the world more energy-efficient.
By combining technological expertise with a clear environmental mission, Schneider Electric is transforming industries and communities across the globe.
1. Iberdrola
Industry: Renewable Energy and Utilities
Country: Spain
Value: US$75bn
CSO: Agustín Delgado Martín
Iberdrola is the green energy trailblazer of our time.
As one of the world’s largest producers of wind power, it’s committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.
The company invests more than US$10bn annually in renewable projects, from expansive offshore wind farms to cutting-edge hydrogen initiatives.
Iberdrola’s pioneering efforts in smart grids ensure efficient energy distribution, reducing waste and empowering consumers.
With roots as a traditional utility in the 19th century, Iberdrola has redefined the energy sector.
Its unwavering focus on sustainability and innovation positions it as a beacon for a cleaner, brighter future, inspiring a global shift toward renewable energy.
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