Bob Willard in his classic book on the business case for sustainability, The Sustainability Advantage, had this to say “Companies that lag (in sustainability) will be history, trapped in a hoax of perpetual, unsustainable growth. Companies that lead (in sustainability) will win.”
With the economic recession in the past two years it has been difficult for small to medium sized companies to move forward with sustainability initiatives and projects. The trend for sustainability has not died and will be important factor as the U.S. economy strengthens. According to a recent report by United Nations Global Compact and Accenture, an overwhelming majority of CEO’s, over 93% say that sustainability will be critical to the future success of companies, in spite of the recent economic downturn. Most believe also that within a decade most businesses will merge sustainability within their core business. In the report, CEO’s also identified the consumer as their most important stakeholder as it relates to environmental concerns.
Sustainability planning takes time. Be the lead in your business and industry in sustainability.