ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents financial metrics, risks, the view of investors and opportunities arising from social and environmental concerns. It aims to prepare the reader in developing the business case for sustainable strategies discussed at board level. The book explains the link between the competitiveness of a company and how social and environmental issues create or destroy value. It presents five maturity levels and presents a tool for a self-evaluation of the board structures of the company. The book explains how to integrate sustainability in board talk and how to blend strategic considerations with the demands of stakeholders. It also discusses and traces some scenarios for the future. For those readers who want to complement the content of this book with a real learning experience the authors have created an online course on Udemy called "Talking Sustainability in the Board-room".
