Sustainable Operations

Sustainable operations doesn’t have to be a company’s end goal. Rather, it can be part of a holistic effort to drive business growth. We work with clients to improve operational sustainability—reducing emissions across the product life cycle, increasing sustainability in procurement and supply chain, enhancing operational efficiency, and transitioning to the circular economy—while creating value for the company.

Many companies are setting emissions goals or net zero targets and increasing operational sustainability to achieve them. Getting on the path to achieve emissions targets enables organizations to stay ahead of new regulations, maintain access to investors’ capital, and retain and attract top talent. Following that path can also bring financial benefits—savings from operational efficiency, revenue growth from market expansion, and new revenue streams—all of which help to offset the costs of working with suppliers to address Scope 3 emissions.

BCG works with companies to achieve emissions and net zero targets so they can stay ahead of a changing regulatory landscape, sure up access to key talent and materials, and drive lasting competitive advantage.

Here are just some of the ways we help clients unlock new value from sustainable operations.

• Sustainable Manufacturing. Although most companies have set ambitious Scope 1 and 2 reduction targets and are committed to achieving them, concerns about incurring higher costs pose a major obstacle. We help companies decarbonize operations while improving efficiency so they not only lower emissions but also realize financial value and reduce risks. For example, by switching to renewable energy, clients can reduce their carbon footprint and insulate themselves from oil price fluctuations.
• Sustainable Supply Chains and Procurement. For most large companies, greenhouse gas emissions from the supply chain—Scope 3 emissions—make up the largest share of their total carbon footprint. We help clients segment suppliers and engage with them to achieve the most impact—from assisting them in setting new sustainable procurement standards to incentivizing decarbonization. Our experts in sustainable procurement and sustainable supply chain consulting ensure that companies have a solid sustainable supply chain strategy in place.
• Circular Economy. By transitioning to the circular economy, companies can help unlock $4.5 trillion of GDP growth worldwide by 2030. This paradigm of production and consumption will generate jobs, improve the quality of life, reduce waste, and create growth opportunities for the private sector. BCG helps clients shift away from the traditional take-make-dispose model and envision a new one that is regenerative by design.