Board Leadership for Growth and Resilience 2026

Appendix A1 Research methodology The foundations and principles in this framework were formulated through a collaborative process led by the World Economic Forum and supported by Chapter Zero Alliance, Deloitte Asia Pacific and Deloitte Global. In total, over 90 stakeholders were engaged during the process. More than 80% of these contributors are executive or non-executive board directors, while the remainder includes C-suite leaders and specialists in climate, nature and governance. The perspectives gathered reflect input from 16 distinct industry sectors, with approximately 60% represented by directors from financial services, professional services and energy. As many directors serve on multiple boards across sectors, their insights have been attributed to each relevant sector to capture the full breadth of their experience. Our engagement process captured insights from across the Americas, Africa, Europe, Asia and Oceania. Approximately 65% of contributors were based in Europe and Asia, reflecting the current regional focus on climate- and nature-related governance challenges and opportunities. We welcome continued dialogue and sector- specific engagement to further strengthen board- level governance practices for climate and nature. Who we heard from: a global view of stakeholder voices / Cross-sector engagement: who contributed to the conversationFIGURE 4 Financial services Energy Professional services Non-profit Materials & infrastructure Manufacturing Health & consumer ICT & media OtherAfrica Asia Europe North America Oceania South America5% 25% 40%11%7%12% Engagement by region6%6%5%4%10% 29% 16% 16%8%Engagement by sector Board Leadership for Growth and Resilience 23