As Chief Sustainability Officers, our role is evolving rapidly in response to the pressing challenges we face today. The climate crisis, loss of biodiversity, and growing inequality are just a few of the critical issues that demand our attention and responsibility as businesses. With each passing day, stakeholder demands, regulatory changes, and evolving expectations from employees place increasing emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations.

We find ourselves transitioning from a state of isolation to full integration, not only in the strategic aspects of our organizations but also on a tactical and operational level. These are truly remarkable and consequential times for CSOs. However, it is important to acknowledge that this journey is not always easy.

That is why I am thrilled that we have initiated the CSO network, providing a platform for CSOs to come together and share insights, best practices, as well as dilemmas and struggles. By fostering this collaborative environment, we can collectively tackle the world's most pressing problems and accelerate the sustainability transformation.

I am eagerly looking forward to meeting each and every one of you and working collaboratively towards a more sustainable future.