‘Interface’ refers to the connection between resources and built environment — mechanisms to convert raw inputs into usable products and systems. ‘Sectors’ in this space include manufacturing and processing, engineering services among others. While our work in the interface sector has traditionally focused on advising founders and workforces ranging from entry-level to senior. That said, our expertise in sustainability—including decarbonization—aligns closely with the sector’s strategic priorities. We have collaborated with leading multinational corporations across APAC, EMEA, and the Americas to drive decarbonization initiatives, including sustainable supply chain risk management initiatives. By combining workforce advisory with sustainability strategy, we help companies achieve both greater operational efficiency and measurable impact.
Case Stories and Key Insights
Even today, the firms we have advised have a significant opportunity to strengthen their sustainability initiatives by building robust marginal abatement cost curves for their decarbonization efforts, particularly in interface sectors. Developing these curves enables companies to systematically identify the most cost-effective measures to reduce emissions while optimizing operational efficiency and resource allocation. Equally critical is the task of mapping emissions across all scopes, which provides organizations with a comprehensive understanding of their total footprint. While collecting accurate data and managing the complexities of extended supply chains can be challenging, these efforts create valuable opportunities to uncover inefficiencies, prioritize interventions, and track progress with precision. Despite progress, many of the firms we have worked with still face gaps in their emissions mapping capabilities—highlighting the continued need for targeted strategies that translate sustainability ambitions into measurable impact.
Learnings and Challenges
In many developing countries, sustainability—and especially decarbonization—has yet to emerge as a core strategic priority for most firms. Pressing financial considerations, infrastructure constraints, and limited regulatory incentives often overshadow long-term ambitions, leaving significant potential for sustainable solutions. As global expectations rise, large corporates can accelerate progress by adopting structured yet flexible approaches: setting clear standards for measuring performance, engaging suppliers through practical roadmaps, and embedding sustainability across their value chains.
Approach and Way Forward | A Blueprint for the Future
Driving lasting sustainability impact requires more than isolated initiatives—it calls for systemic change across business functions. This means integrating sustainability into supplier engagement frameworks. By aligning sustainability objectives with business goals, firms can move from compliance-driven actions to value-driven mindset, creating competitive advantage while reducing risk exposure. Sustainability transformation accelerates when organizations adopt a platform mindset—one that connects people, processes, and partners through shared tools, data, and accountability. Digital platforms and collaborative ecosystems enable firms to collect real-time insights, co-develop solutions with suppliers, and measure outcomes consistently across regions and functions. This approach builds scale, transparency, and agility—turning sustainability into an operational reality. Sustainability needs to pivot from resilience to visioning for lasting organizational change. Reach out to us to explore fresh perspectives and actionable strategies.
Industries | Engagements | Countries | Events
10+ Industries | 100+ Industry and Impact Client Engagements | 10+ Countries | 100+ Industry and Impact Events