How Vestas Embeds Sustainability Across Strategy, Leadership, and Operations

Developed for Sustainability Management Foundations (SUMA 4100) within Columbia University’s M.S. in Sustainability Management program, this paper analyzes how Vestas integrates sustainability across engineering, supply chain, governance, and leadership, positioning it as a strategic and commercial differentiator rather than a standalone ESG function. 

“Vestas demonstrates how sustainability can be operationalized across engineering, operations, supply chain, and leadership when it is treated as a core business function rather than a separate ESG initiative. While the company has made significant progress on emissions reduction, circularity, and governance, its long-term success will depend on accelerating Scope 3 collaboration, scaling recycling technologies, and strengthening internal data systems amid growing regulatory and investor pressure.”

Prepared by Emporia Meng

December 9, 2025