Neurodivergent-Friendly Planning: Making Sustainability Accessible to All

For the 1 in 7 people who are neurodivergent — including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive differences — traditional approaches to understanding sustainability and measuring impact in business can be exclusionary. Reports are often dense and technical, stakeholder sessions overstimulating, and communication lacking clarity or flexibility.

If we want sustainability to be inclusive and credible, we need to rethink how people engage with it — and ensure everyone has a voice in shaping it.

Understanding the Challenge

Neurodivergent individuals may process information differently. Some find it challenging to absorb lengthy written content; others may be overwhelmed by noisy events or confused by vague timelines and unclear next steps. When impact assessments don’t account for these differences, participation drops — and businesses risk missing out on valuable insights.

This isn’t just an equity issue — it’s a business risk.

What Does Inclusive Planning Look Like?

To make sustainability initiatives and impact assessments more inclusive, organisations should adopt universal design principles, including:

• Using plain-language summaries and visual explainers

• Hosting low-sensory, quiet environments for discussions

• Providing flexible ways to engage — written, verbal, anonymous, or visual

• Keeping communication structured, predictable, and transparent

The Role of Digital Tools

Platforms like Drova are transforming how businesses conduct stakeholder engagement. By using AI to tailor questions based on company size, location, and sector, and allowing feedback at each stakeholder’s own pace, Drova helps make impact assessment more representative, accessible, and meaningful — especially for those who are often excluded.

Designing for Diversity Strengthens Everyone

Planning for neurodivergence benefits everyone. When businesses simplify how they present sustainability data and open multiple ways for people to respond, they improve engagement, increase trust, and reduce friction in decision-making.

As expectations around inclusive, responsible business continue to rise, now is the time to move from compliance to connection — and ensure your sustainability journey is built with everyone in mind.

Looking to make your sustainability work more inclusive?
Explore how Drova and ESG Made Easy can help you connect with stakeholders in ways that are clear, respectful, and impactful.