• 91% of companies integrating sustainability into core business strategies expect increased revenue in 2025.
• 47% of CFOs plan to increase their involvement in sustainability strategies this year.
• Businesses with integrated sustainability strategies report higher profitability and market resilience.

A strategic approach to sustainability is driving significant business growth, according to the 2025 CFO Sustainability Outlook Survey, which polled 500 CFOs across industries including life sciences, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and technology.

Why It Matters:

Companies embedding sustainability into their core strategies are not just meeting regulatory and stakeholder demands but are also gaining a competitive edge. Karen Baum, Managing Principal of BDO USA’s Sustainability & ESG Center of Excellence, said, “A sustainable business is stronger, more responsive to stakeholder expectations, and more resilient to economic headwinds.”

By the Numbers:

• 91% of integrated sustainability strategy companies expect increased revenue, compared to 74% of all respondents.
• 69% of integrated companies anticipate higher profitability, against 56% overall.
• 80% of CFOs expect their involvement in ESG strategy to stay the same or increase in 2025.

What They’re Saying:

“Businesses that integrate sustainability into core business strategy create a strong offense — unlocking innovative growth pathways while defending against shifting market conditions,” Baum added.

What’s Next:

CFOs are increasingly critical in embedding sustainability into business strategies, with 61% of those working on integration expecting higher demands on their time. As the regulatory landscape evolves, particularly with stringent European ESG mandates, U.S. businesses are preparing for increased transparency and strategic alignment.

Related Article: 79% of Agrifood Executives Report Revenue Growth from Sustainability Investments: Deloitte Survey

Bottom Line:

Sustainability is no longer a checkbox exercise. It is a strategic lever for growth, profitability, and resilience. The companies that integrate sustainability into their business models now will be best positioned to thrive in an evolving market landscape.

Read the full survey here.

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