by Naomi R. Kooker

A global survey has found that half of the businesses polled lack a sustainability strategy.

Even so, 55 percent said sustainability will grow in importance and require increased resources and attention, according to the survey, which was released Tuesday.

The survey, sponsored by Pinnacle Worldwide Inc., polled 338 companies from six continents, 25 countries and 40 different industries. Morrissey & Company, the Boston reputation management and public relations firm, announced the results. By and large, CEOs responded to the surveys.

Key findings include:

• Nearly half of companies surveyed have less than $50,000 allocated, annually, to sustainability-related programs.
• Ten percent have more than $50,000 allocated.
• Some 3 percent have more than $500,000 allocated.

 

When asked about potential production methods for meeting the world’s food needs, respondents saw very little difference in current practices.

Biotechnology just slightly out-ranked organic farming, but not by enough to be statistically significant.

Clearing forests and grasslands for food production, and ocean-caught fish, were seen as having the least potential for success at providing future food needs for the planet.

The study also found that organizations with a sustainability strategy are more likely to be focused on improving perceptions and responding to increasing regulations, rather than meeting social needs or generating revenue opportunities.

The survey, developed by Vandiver Group Inc., was conducted online between April 15 and May 5, 2008.

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