In the age of climate-tech startups and flashy ESG rebrands, it’s easy to assume that newer companies are leading the sustainability charge. But a new study suggests otherwise: older, more established companies may actually be more environmentally responsible than their youthful counterparts.
The research, published in Nature Climate Change, analyzed emissions and sustainability data from thousands of firms worldwide—and found a consistent trend: companies over 30 years old were more likely to have lower emissions intensity and better climate governance than younger businesses.
Why Would Older Companies Be Greener?
It seems counterintuitive, right? But there are some solid reasons:
📊 Institutional Knowledge – Mature companies often have dedicated teams, better internal reporting systems, and long-term climate commitments that startups haven’t developed yet.
🧱 Infrastructure – Older firms are more likely to own their supply chains, facilities, and manufacturing—which gives them more control over sustainability improvements.
📣 Public Accountability – They’ve been around long enough to know reputation matters. Many are under greater pressure from shareholders, regulators, and the media to clean up their act.
💼 Less Risk-Taking, More Stewardship – The research shows that older companies may feel more responsibility to preserve their legacy than to chase short-term profits.
What This Doesn’t Mean
This study doesn’t say younger companies don’t care. In fact, many startups have sustainability in their DNA. But it does challenge the narrative that age equals inertia. Sometimes, age equals accountability.
It also underscores the need to support and pressure both old and new players to reach net zero—because we need everyone in the climate fight.
Lessons for Consumers and Investors
✅ Don’t write off “legacy brands” when looking for eco-aligned companies. Some of the biggest climate wins might come from the least likely logos.
✅ Dig deeper than the marketing—sustainability isn’t always loud or shiny. It might be buried in a decades-old operational overhaul or a quiet supply-chain revolution.
✅ Push younger companies to match or beat the standards set by their elders. Youth is no excuse for a dirty footprint.