From 14 to 19 May 2025, the PM² Certification Centre (PM² CC), in collaboration with PM² and the European Academy, conducted a comprehensive online survey aimed at shaping the future of sustainability-integrated project management certifications. The initiative was part of the broader SPM² project, which seeks to align project management training with sustainability and ESG frameworks.
Purpose of the Survey:
Gather input from certified and non-certified PM² professionals
Inform the design of new sustainability-focused certification pathways
Explore preferences for learning formats, exam methods, and training content
Assess challenges and success factors in the adoption of sustainability certifications
The survey was distributed to candidates registered on PM2.center, reaching an engaged and diverse professional audience.
Key Statistics:
Total respondents: 145
Certified PM² professionals: 71
Non-certified: 74
Professional background:
Private sector: 43.5%
Public sector: 33.8%
Academia/NGO/Other: 22.7%
Notable Insights:
Familiarity with Sustainability
70% of certified respondents were at least somewhat familiar with sustainability in project management
Non-certified professionals showed lower familiarity — suggesting an opportunity for foundational training
Strong Support for New Certifications
47% support a Level 3 PM² Sustainability Expert certification
Additional interest shown in Level 2 (Essentials) and Level 1 (Student/Young Professional) options
Preferred Training & Exam Formats
Most favoured online self-paced or blended learning
76% preferred online multiple-choice exams, with increasing support for case studies at advanced levels
Challenges to Adoption
Top concerns:
Lack of employer recognition (50%)
Market saturation and certification fatigue (46%)
Time, cost, and unclear value
What Adds Value?
Alignment with EU policies & ESG frameworks (63%)
Institutional recognition, international alignment, and practical case-based learning
Future Engagement
Over 80% of respondents asked to be kept informed of future certification and training opportunities
Strategic Relevance:
The results validate the SPM² project’s approach in designing multi-level sustainability certifications. These will cater to:
Entry-level professionals needing awareness and introductory content
Practicing PM² professionals seeking integration of ESG into their workflow
Advanced users and trainers who can lead the transition to sustainable project management standards
Dissemination:
The survey and its outcomes were featured on:
