IPA Sustainability Summit 2026

Riding the Next Wave: Sustainability as a Growth Strategy  

The tide may have turned on sustainability headlines, but the underlying business opportunity is only gathering momentum. The agencies that act now will be best placed to ride the next wave of growth. 

This event brings together industry leaders, clients and sustainability experts to explore how environmental and social change is reshaping the commercial landscape. From emerging market trends and client expectations to innovation, efficiency and new revenue opportunities, the morning will examine why sustainability is a business imperative, not just a corporate responsibility. 

Attendees will leave with fresh insights, real-world examples and practical ideas for building future-ready businesses that can thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

Agenda

9.00 am Breakfast and networking

9.30 am Welcome

9.35 am Opening keynote: The next wave

After years of focus, sustainability appears to have slipped down the corporate agenda. Media attention has reduced, investor enthusiasm has cooled, and many organisations have become more cautious in how they communicate their sustainability ambitions.  

But is this really a permanent retreat, or simply the calm before the next wave of growth?

10.00 am The forces shaping the future of business

An expert perspective on the economic, regulatory and market trends set to influence business strategy, consumer expectations and growth opportunities in the years ahead.  

10.20 am Coffee break

10.40 am Best in class: sustainability in action

Hear from leading brands that are turning sustainability ambitions into commercial success, demonstrating how strategic change can unlock growth, strengthen resilience and deliver measurable results. 

11.10 am The environmental impact of AI production 

With AI adoption accelerating, this session explores how agencies can balance innovation, efficiency and environmental responsibility across production.

11.40 am Repositioning sustainability as business critical

As client expectations, market pressures and business priorities evolve, sustainability is becoming a key driver of future competitiveness. Industry leaders share how they are using it to create value, win business and position their organisations for long-term growth. 

12.15 pm Making sustainability matter

Closing keynote exploring how positive storytelling can engage audiences and drive behavioural change.

12.40 pm Closing remarks

12.45 pm Lunch and close

*Agenda subject to change

Optional bonus screening

1.15 pm Beyond the Summit: The National Emergency Briefing

Attendees who would like to continue the conversation after lunch are invited to stay for an optional 45 minute screening of the National Emergency Briefing, followed by a discussion. This thought-provoking film explores a future climate emergency scenario and its implications for business, society and our industry's role in driving change.