Sustainability Communications: A Practitioner's Guide

Sustainability Communications offers a timely and practical examination of how sustainability is being communicated across corporate, NGO, and government sectors. As sustainability becomes a core component of global business strategy―tied not only to reputation, but also to regulation―the role of communications and PR professionals is rapidly evolving. This book provides a comprehensive overview of how communicators can navigate the complex and often high-stakes environment of sustainability communications in a way that is transparent, ethical, and aligned with stakeholder expectations. Bridging theory and practice, this book offers models, tools, and real-world guidance for professionals managing sustainability narratives. It addresses the challenges posed by new terminologies, fast-changing legislation, and rising public scrutiny. Drawing on global perspectives, this book features contributions from practitioners with on-the-ground experience, ensuring a diverse and internationally relevant framework. It also explores how communicators must adapt in the age of the chief sustainability officer, where credibility and consistency in messaging are essential to organisational integrity.

This book is aimed at communications and marketing professionals seeking to deepen their strategic capabilities in sustainability, as well as students and researchers in communications studies. It will also be of value to sustainability practitioners who wish to better collaborate with communications teams in order to align messaging with broader ESG objectives. Whether in professional practice or academic development, this volume supports readers in building both the insight and skill set needed to lead in this critical and emerging field.

Suzy Giles is a communications professional with 25 years of experience, working across global organisations, specifically in the areas of brand development, reputation management, and employee engagement. She is Founder and Managing Director of Giles Global, a communications consultancy specialising in sustainability, advising leaders and their teams on how to communicate their sustainability strategy with authenticity and transparency. Suzy is Chair of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO) Climate Communications Task Force, and the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) ESG Network.