introduction
Governance plays a pivotal role in bridging sustainability ambition with measurable outcomes. As sustainability evolves from a value-led narrative to a compliance-driven framework, internal structures must mature to manage complexity and ensure accountability. The effectiveness of ESG programs is often tied not to intent, but to institutional design—how decisions are made, who follows up, and how oversight is maintained from policy to practice. In organizations with extensive rural operations, the role of internal committees and cross-functional governance is more critical than ever.
As sustainability frameworks evolve from voluntary to regulatory in nature, internal governance must evolve too, i.e., linking strategy with implementation. This document highlights how Deccan established an active Sustainability Committee that connects strategic planning with rural execution. With cross-functional representation—from compliance, procurement, and community engagement—the committee sets priorities, monitors outcomes, and ensures alignment with frameworks like EUDR, STP 2.0, and the SDGs. The result is a governance model that is fully functional.
