KPMG

A global survey of 250 heads of sustainability conducted by independent analyst firm Verdantix found that, in 2012, the highest brand preference for sustainability consulting was achieved by Ernst & Young, for sustainability assurance by KPMG, for sustainability software by Microsoft and in the not-for-profit category by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP).

New research from KPMG AZSA Sustainability and data and insight company Trucost has found that the growing dependence of Japanese companies on manufacturing in parts of Asia is increasing their exposure to water shortages. Their joint study found that outsourcing to water-stressed countries including China can increase business risks from water scarcity have implications for companies globally. Water came to the fore of supply chain risk management for companies in industries such as Consumer Electronics and Automobiles & Parts after floods in Thailand disrupted supplies in 2011.

New research shows that Chinese companies are becoming more interested in sustainability issues. Pressure from government and a recognition of how brands gain value from sustainability policies are two factors contributing to the growing interest. The Conference Board, a US-based research and business membership group, surveyed 476 firms for its Business and Sustainability in China: Company Responses to a National Priority report, which discovered that government directives, at both local and central levels, are often a decisive factor in defining corporate sustainability strategies.

There should be more interaction between governments and the private sector on the international climate change negotiations, as decisions at this forum impacted on business. KPMG’s global climate change and sustainability advisor Yvo de Boer said recently.

Globally, 2010 was an active year for renewable energy mergers and acquisitions with a total of 446 deals completed in the period, representing an increase of over 70 percent on the 260 deals closed in 2009, says a survey from KPMG that highlights the hot spots and drivers of deal activity around the globe.