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Future proofing your business
Grow your business 25 Aug 2025

The Sustainability Academy: Future-proofing your business

Change is inevitable, and Africa is leading the charge in the shift towards sustainability.

Business landscapes are evolving faster than ever, and sustainable practices have become a necessity for long-term growth and resilience. Climate change, resource scarcity and evolving regulations are no longer distant concerns; they are shaping markets today.

Adaptation to a low-carbon economy is a standard expectation now, and our free,  Sustainability learning platform has been designed to help businesses of all sizes navigate the transition with confidence. The Standard Bank Sustainability Academy exists to help you not only keep the pace but get ahead.
 

Business resilience: The added benefit of early adoption

This isn’t just about checking a box; this is about true growth, vision for the future and leveraging the way you run your business to foster trust, improve efficiency and create robust businesses that stand the test of time.

Companies that integrate sustainable practices into their operations sooner rather than later are better equipped to withstand supply chain disruptions, manage costs and respond to shifting consumer expectations.

The Sustainability Academy offers practical, relevant content that empowers leaders to do the following:

  • Unpack ESG principles and how they impact business performance
  • Explore the different types of renewable energy options
  • Understand the benefits of Climate-smart agriculture
  • Implement water and wastewater management solutions
  • Understand and leverage carbon markets 
     

Expert-led and practical learning

The Sustainability Academy draws on the expertise of industry leaders, sustainability specialists and real-world case studies. Modules are designed to be practical, not theoretical, which ensures that participants walk away with tools they can apply to their own businesses.

Knowledge is the root of sustainability.

Our academy not only instils education around sustainability, but it bridges the gap between a lack of resources and the ability to thrive. We offer  accessible and actionable knowledge which can be implemented immediately. We’re here to start making a difference today.
 

How the academy supports SMEs

SMEs, which form the backbone of our continent’s economy, need real-world resources and expertise to implement sustainable practices. We help businesses that are starting out to understand the basics of sustainability and ESG, identify opportunities in the green economy and build sustainable practices into their business model from day one.

We have also created resources and support for businesses while they manage their sustainability efforts. We teach them how to apply cost-saving, efficiency-boosting solutions such as renewable energy, water management and waste reduction to improve operations and resilience.

Finally, we help businesses use sustainability as a competitive advantage to access new markets, attract customers and investors and scale with confidence in a low-carbon economy. Not only does this give them the momentum they need towards their sustainability goals, but it amplifies their growth and builds towards their continued success.
 

The future belongs to businesses that act today

Our academy will help you future-proof your business, cut costs, stay compliant and stand out in the market. Explore the Sustainability Academy and start building a business that’s ready for the future.