Why Research and Science Must Shape Every Sustainability Strategy

Sep 1

Based on my work with the University of Sydney.

In a world racing toward climate deadlines, it’s easy to default to action without foundation. But without research, there is no strategy — only guesswork. Without science, sustainability loses its credibility and impact.

As a sustainability strategist and researcher, I had the privilege of supporting the University of Sydney in developing evidence-based recommendations to reduce business travel flights (and emissions). The project wasn’t just about ticking boxes — it was about using data, systems thinking, and real-world application to inform measurable behaviorual change.

My Research at the University of Sydney: Reducing Emissions from Travel

The University tasked me with identifying how staff travel — particularly flights — contributed to its emissions profile. My role involved:

Researching emissions data linked to flights and ground transport
Collaborating with staff and departments to understand travel needs
Proposing practical, low-carbon alternatives
Aligning recommendations with equity, climate goals, and university policies

The outcome was a suite of science-informed recommendations designed to support low-carbon travel decisions, reduce unnecessary trips, and improve transparency.

This work underscored a simple truth: if sustainability isn’t guided by data, it risks being ineffective, tokenistic, or misaligned with reality.

Why Research-Led Strategies Matter

Sustainability is more than recycling bins and LED lights. Done properly, it requires:

A deep understanding of systems, behaviours, and impact
Climate science and lifecycle data to guide priorities
Quantifiable outcomes to track progress over time
Clear alignment with global goals like the SDGs and the Paris Agreement

Businesses and institutions must move beyond surface-level commitments. Strategies must be evidence-based, measurable, and adaptive.

Science Builds Trust and Accountability

Whether you’re in tourism, education, manufacturing or retail — science and research should form the foundation of:

Carbon reduction plans
Supplier engagement and procurement strategies
ESG reporting and compliance
Staff education and behavioural change programs
Climate risk and governance frameworks

Research legitimises your actions. It provides transparency. And it protects your brand and reputation from greenwashing.

Start With Data. Build From There.

So, what does this mean for your organisation?

It means that any sustainability strategy should begin with research. Understand your impact. Map your operations. Identify gaps. And then — only then — act.

If you're struggling to connect vision with action, I can help. As a sustainability consultant with experience across strategy, research, and implementation, I work with businesses and institutions to:

Translate complex science into simple, actionable steps
Align operations with climate goals and best practices
Build trust through transparency and evidence-based outcomes

Final Thoughts

The future of sustainability isn’t guesswork. It’s grounded in data, driven by evidence, and led with integrity.

From my research at the University of Sydney to my broader work in sustainable travel and tourism, I’ve seen what happens when we let science lead: smarter strategies, better decisions, and lasting impact.

📩 Let’s connect — Contact Me or Learn More About My Work

Dayana Brooke

Dayana Brooke is a writer, sustainability strategist, and advocate for Mother Nature, based in the coastal city of Wollongong, Australia. With Chilean roots and a love for hiking, she translates science into action—focusing on sustainable travel, tourism, and leadership. Dayana writes to reconnect people with nature, living by the rhythms of the Earth. She finds joy in knitting, sunrises, full moons, and time with her children.