Sustainability often challenges companies to address numerous issues simultaneously, resulting in dispersed efforts with limited impact. To enhance the effectiveness of sustainability strategies, a focused approach is essential. A framework employing four lenses—business value, stakeholder influence, science and technology, and purpose—offers a comprehensive method for prioritisation. These lenses ensure that strategic efforts align with business goals, stakeholder concerns, scientific data, and organisational values.

This framework empowers organisations to manage external pressures while maintaining internal priorities. By applying these lenses (Figure 1), companies can allocate resources efficiently and achieve meaningful sustainability outcomes.

Figure 1. The fours lenses

Source: Harvard Business Review (2024)

When applied effectively, each lens in the framework highlights distinct sustainability issues. To gain a clearer understanding of the issues most relevant to your organisation, consider these guiding questions and potential tools (Table 1). Focus your sustainability strategy on those issues that align at the intersection of all four lenses.

Table 1. Discover the focus of your business