Needs for an Integrated Approach against Multiple Environmental Problems and Challenges to Overcome

Abstract

As global environmental problems worsen, the need for integrated actions for climate change, biodiversity loss, and circular economy is arising. Based on the findings of discussions with corporate managers facing complex environmental issues, this paper demonstrates that (1) an integrated approach has three pillars: qualitative structural understanding, quantitative evaluation, and implementing actions, and (2) ten factors can make it difficult to implement integrated approaches. Furthermore, since companies have limited management resources to respond in an integrated manner, (3) companies should advance their efforts in phases, and the authors provided directions for action in two aspects: (4) awareness and communication of actions, and (5) information disclosure and management.