The 2024 Belgium SDG Barometer reveals significant insights into the progress and challenges Belgian organisations face in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals. Key findings show that while many organisations have made strides in sustainability, gaps remain in the depth of integration and impact assessment.

Key Findings

1. Increased Maturity in SDG Engagement: Organisations have shown progress in their sustainability efforts, with an overall increase in maturity regarding SDG engagement. However, many still face significant challenges in fully embedding these goals.
2. Overestimated SDG Implementation: While organisations believe they have effectively implemented the SDGs, there is a gap between perceived and actual implementation, indicating a need for more precise impact assessments and strategy adjustments.
3. Lack of Integration into Employee Training and Policies: The SDGs are not yet widely embedded in employee training programmes, performance reviews, or remuneration structures, suggesting that they are not fully integrated into core organisational processes.
4. Limited Impact Analysis: Few organisations conduct thorough analyses to assess the specific impacts of their SDG initiatives, leaving the actual influence of these efforts largely unknown.
5. Education and Awareness: The SDGs are still not central to employee training or education, highlighting a gap in fostering a sustainability-focused workforce culture.

Policy Recommendations:

1. Clear Vision Beyond 2030: Establish a framework for the SDGs post-2030 to prevent waning interest and ensure long-term commitment.
2. Focus on Competency Development: Equip organisations with skills for a dynamic sustainability landscape.
3. Address Systemic Challenges: Encourage systemic approaches and cross-sector collaborations to tackle complex sustainability issues.
4. Share Best Practices: Document and share successful approaches for broader organisational learning.
5. Enhance Education and Awareness: Continue embedding SDG principles in education and training.
6. Advance Sustainability Reporting: Promote narrative-driven sustainability reporting to strengthen stakeholder engagement.
7. Professionalise Data Management: Improve data collection, particularly in supply chains, to align with upcoming regulatory requirements.

These recommendations aim to support Belgian organisations in overcoming challenges and embedding the SDGs more fully in their operations, fostering a sustainable future for the long term.

For a detailed analysis and further information, you can access the full SDG Barometer 2024 report here.