What are sustainability metrics?

Sustainability metrics are quantifiable measures that evaluate an organization's performance in environmental, social, and economic dimensions. These metrics enable companies to track their progress toward sustainability goals and provide a framework for assessing the impact of their operations on the planet and society. They often encompass indicators such as carbon emissions, water usage, energy efficiency, social equity, and economic viability. By using these metrics, organizations can identify areas for improvement and make more informed decisions that support sustainable practices.

The focus on quantifiable measures distinguishes sustainability metrics from other types of assessments. For instance, qualitative measures of employee satisfaction emphasize personal feelings and opinions, but they do not provide direct data related to sustainability performance. Financial records concerning annual profits primarily relate to economic aspects and do not capture the environmental or social dimensions integral to a comprehensive sustainability strategy. Similarly, indicators of customer service quality are important for business performance but do not reflect the broader impacts of sustainability initiatives. Thus, the definition of sustainability metrics is clear and specifically tied to measurable outcomes across the three pillars of sustainability.