For years, executives filed sustainability under "cost center." The data says the opposite. Companies with strong ESG performance posted 25% higher profit margins over five years than weak-ESG competitors. Revenue growth: over 30% faster, driven by customers who buy on values alignment. Customer lifetime value: up 30%, driven by stronger brand affinity and lower churn. Talent retention: 14% lower turnover, meaning lower recruitment cost. Cost of capital: measurably better financing terms, as institutional capital keeps flowing toward ESG-aligned funds.