MISSISSAUGA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A recent survey conducted by Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, reveals that Canadians are growing impatient with the slow progress of the country’s largest corporations, highlighting a concerning gap between public expectations and business efforts. These findings come at a critical moment as Canada seeks to meet the ambitious targets of the 2030 Paris Agreement.
Key findings from the survey include:
- A majority (81%) of Canadians agree big businesses and corporations in Canada need to take action now to halt climate change.
- 2 in 3 (64%) Canadians do not think CEOs and other C-Suite executives in Canada will be able to achieve their sustainability goals by the time of the Paris Climate Accord in 2030.
- 3 in 4 (76%) Canadians think that big businesses and corporations in Canada have let too much time pass without taking action on climate change.
- 7 in 10 (69%) Canadians agree CEOs and other C-Suite executives in Canada are running out of time to achieve their sustainability goals.
- Canadians are divided on their belief that CEOs and other C-Suite executives in Canada are genuinely committed to sustainable initiatives that will halt climate change (47 per cent agree).
"We are at a pivotal moment in history where sustainability can no longer be an afterthought but must be at the forefront of business agendas," says Emily Heitman, Country President at Schneider Electric Canada. "The message from Canadians is loud and clear: they expect big businesses to take immediate, decisive action on climate change. With nearly 70% believing that CEOs are running out of time to achieve their sustainability goals, it's critical that we act now. The Paris Climate Accord's 2030 deadline is fast approaching, and we must accelerate our efforts to ensure we deliver on our commitments.”
To regain trust, C-Suite executives must not only commit to change but demonstrate measurable progress toward meeting their goals. By prioritizing, executing, and measuring their sustainability goals, C-Suite executives can not only meet public expectations but also unlock new opportunities for innovation and growth. As consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions, companies that take a lead in this area are positioned to gain a strong competitive edge.
Schneider Electric remains dedicated to helping businesses reach their sustainability goals and achieve net-zero. For more information on how to transform your business, visit https://www.se.com/ca/en/work/campaign/impact-makers/
To see the full results of the report, visit this link.
About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is an #ImpactCompany that provides energy and automation digital solutions to drive efficiency and sustainability for all. We combine world-leading energy technologies, real-time automation, software and services into integrated solutions for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure and industries. We make process and energy safe and reliable, open and connected, and efficient and sustainable. www.se.com/ca
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Methodology
The study conducted on behalf of Schneider Electric in collaboration with SAGO, included a 3-minute online quantitative survey among 1,541 nationally representative Canadians to understand their opinions and attitudes towards C-Suite executives and their sustainability efforts. The survey was conducted in English. The study took place online in August 2024. Quotas and weighting were used to ensure that the sample’s composition reflects that of the Canadian adult population according to the latest census parameters.
