Sometimes Sustainability Costs More. So What? by Andrew Winston, November 08, 2024 Many smart, strategic business decisions come with a price. Only in sustainability is this considered a problem. Corporate sustainability efforts are seemingly facing a slump of low enthusiasm, with some tired clichés like “sustainability always costs more” resurfacing. It’s a blunt, unnuanced argument. The business case for sustainability is still sound. Broadly speaking, when done well, #sustainability initiatives do one or more of the following: lower costs, reduce risk, drive innovation, raise revenues, and enhance intangible value. In short, investing in sustainability does pay off. However, contrary to what many seem to think, the argument for sustainability is not that it’s easy or always “win-win” in the short run. It’s that it’s strategic and creates value (sometimes short, sometimes long). Sustainability is, by definition, a win-win in the long run; there is no growth for business or the economy on a dying planet with unhealthy people. In areas ravaged and made uninhabitable by climate change—from extreme heat, storms, floods, or rising seas — economic activity essentially stops. Gross domestic product falls to approximately zero. https://lnkd.in/dHwWiMwu
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Global sustainability involves meeting current needs without compromising future generations' abilities to do the same. But there are misconceptions which must be understood by individuals and addressed collectively. I have listed the top 3 from my experiences and would like to hear your thoughts. 1. Sustainability is only about environment protection. This is incorrect, and it encompasses economic stability and social equity as well. Sustainability aims for a balance between environment, economy and social well-being. 2. Sustainability is expensive. Rather it is true that, investing in sustainability practice can lead to long-term cost savings through increased efficiency, reduced waste, and improved resource management. As per recent research, achieving net zero is costly, around 0.7-1% of GDP; but the cost of inaction is significantly higher, projected at 3.3% of GDP by 2050 (as per Oxford publications). 3. Individual Actions Don't matter. But it does. While systemic changes are crucial, individual actions collectively have a significant impact. Personal choices, such as reducing energy consumption, recycling, and supporting sustainable products, contribute to the broader sustainability goals. #sustainability #climatechange #netzero Nidhi Tandon, Michael Quigley, PE, LEED AP George Bruton-Delaney, Jr. Gillian D. Francis Anthony Abinader Chau Nguyen Adviya Khan Alec Li, Ph.D. Sarah Kjelleren Fabi Hubschmid Travis Marshall Daria Dubois Joseph UGUET Derrick Foo Praveen Hariharan Sarat Mohanty, Santosh Kumar, David Marchesseau, Benjamin Casteillo, Mary KON-SUN-TACK, Anne Langourieux, Elodie Kriener Manière, Maki V.,
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[C2 MTL] - Sustainability C2 is a great event to meet great people and discover creative ideas and approaches to business challenges. Over the past 3 days, one phrase said by Indy Johar from Dark Matter Labs really got me thinking: “When it comes to sustainability, what are we actually trying to sustain?” Yes, organizations understand how they must reduce their footprint and design new solutions and products sustainably… but why? To save our planet? Or to sustain our current lifestyles? To sustain capitalism as we know it to be today? To sustain growth? 🤔 Don’t get me wrong, sustainability is critical as it brings organizations to understand their impact on the environment and on society and to take action to address that face on. We need to pursue that journey, continue to learn and improve. However, I invite organizations to ask themselves what are they truly trying to sustain and how that relates to the environment and our planetary limits. I’m certain this will put light on commercial goals that are in direct opposition to sustainability goals. I encourage organizations to have honest discussions about conflicting theories and to find truly sustainable solutions that work for them and their stakeholders. #sustainability #c2mtl #regeneration #circulareconomy
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🌱 Sustainability: Beyond the Buzzword 🌱 I’ve always believed that sustainability isn’t just about environmental responsibility—it’s about creating efficient, cost-effective systems that provide long-term value. As sustainability continues to grow as a priority, it’s essential to approach it with a broader perspective. “Sustainability” is a term I encounter daily. It’s an area I explored extensively during my PhD studies, and I now live in a country where sustainability is deeply embedded in how we approach the world. However, I believe sustainability should be examined from a wider angle globally. It cannot be limited to surface-level initiatives or a narrow environmental focus. True sustainability should challenge us to address inefficiencies in our processes—whether in the form of wasted resources, lost time, or untapped talent within our teams. When processes aren’t optimized, we miss opportunities to make meaningful progress. Sustainability isn’t only about protecting the environment; it’s about how we manage both human and material resources to create lasting, positive impact. Real sustainability requires a balance between environmental goals and operational excellence. This is where Lean principles come into play—by eliminating waste, streamlining processes, and continuously improving systems, we ensure that every resource, including human potential, is used to its fullest. By optimizing our systems and approaches, we can create enduring value that benefits both the environment and the people driving business forward. #Sustainability #Efficiency #Lean #LongTermValue #ProcessOptimization #OperationalExcellence
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How does investing in sustainability practices give organizations a competitive edge? 1. Sustainable practices reduce dependence on finite resources and enhance resilience to environmental disruptions. 2. Companies can significantly lower their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet. 3. Sustainability can set a brand apart and attract environmentally conscious consumers. 4. Sustainable companies often experience improved financial performance, long-term success, and increased shareholder value. Investing in sustainability is not just beneficial for the planet, but also for business! 🌿💚 #Sustainability #BusinessGrowth #EcoFriendly #GreenEconomy
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🌱 Embracing Sustainability: A Key Imperative for a Brighter Future 🌍 In today's interconnected world, the concept of sustainability plays a crucial role in shaping our collective future. It transcends mere environmental concerns to encompass a holistic approach towards responsible living and corporate stewardship. As we navigate through complex challenges, the significance of sustainability cannot be overstated. Let's delve deeper into why sustainability should be at the forefront of our minds and actions: - **Long-term Viability:** Sustainable practices ensure the longevity of our resources and environments, safeguarding them for future generations. - **Innovation Catalyst:** By embracing sustainability, we foster innovation, driving towards cleaner technologies, circular economy models, and enhanced efficiencies. - **Global Impact:** The ripple effects of sustainable choices resonate worldwide, contributing to a more resilient and equitable planet. - **Ethical Imperative:** Embracing sustainability is not just a choice but a moral obligation to uphold the values of integrity, fairness, and compassion towards all living beings. - **Economic Resilience:** Sustainable practices not only benefit the planet but also lead to cost savings, increased market competitiveness, and a more stable economy in the long run. With every decision we make, be it in our personal lives or within our organizations, let's ask ourselves: How can we integrate sustainability into our core values and operations for a brighter tomorrow? Let's harness the power of collaboration, innovation, and conscious choices to pave the way towards a sustainable future. Together, we can be the change-makers that drive positive impact and inspire others to follow suit. Join me in this journey towards sustainability, where every small step contributes to a monumental shift in our collective trajectory. Together, let's be the architects of a more sustainable, prosperous, and harmonious world. 🌿💡 #Sustainability #FutureReady #ChangeMakers
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💡'Many sustainable practices can lead to economic benefits, improved quality of life, and long-term stability.' We know everyone is different, and an individual may have different goals and aims to a business. Striking the balance between sustainability and profit can be tricky. But, as our Applied Behavioural Scientist Mark Hauser notes in the latest part of his blog series... it is possible! Read the blog below 👇 #Sustainability #SustainableGoals #SustainabilityForBusiness
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69% of respondents say sustainability is reflected in their core values - what is your experience? Have your say today - https://lnkd.in/eqKqFq3d #globalsustainabilitystudy #sustainability
Global Sustainability Study 2024
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Embracing Sustainability - A Path Towards a Better Future Sustainability has become a buzzword in recent years, but it's more than just a trend. It's a fundamental shift in how we interact with the planet and each other, recognizing that our actions today have consequences for future generations. At its core, sustainability is about meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It's about creating a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. The challenges we face today, from climate change to resource depletion, are interconnected and demand a holistic approach. Sustainability is not just the responsibility of governments and businesses. Each of us can play a role in creating a more sustainable future. Here are a few simple steps we can take: 1. Reduce our carbon footprint by using public transportation, walking, or cycling, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. 2. Conserve water and energy by turning off lights and appliances when not in use and fixing leaks, we can save water and energy. 3. Reduce, reuse, and recycle by minimizing waste and choosing products with minimal packaging, we can reduce our impact on the environment. 4. Support sustainable businesses by choosing businesses that prioritize sustainability, we can encourage others to follow suit. Sustainability is not just a goal, but a journey. It requires a collective effort from individuals, businesses, and governments. By working together, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all. #sustainability #InnovateForaSustainableFuture
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🌱 Embracing Sustainability: A Profitable Path Forward As our world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, the debate over the role of businesses in sustainability has never been more crucial. For years, the prevailing belief was that prioritizing profit and sustainability were mutually exclusive goals. However, a paradigm shift is underway. Today, forward-thinking companies are realizing that integrating sustainability into their business strategies not only benefits the planet but also their bottom line. In my view, the notion that sustainability comes at the expense of profit is outdated. Rather, I believe that businesses have a unique opportunity to innovate and thrive by embracing sustainable practices. By reducing waste, optimizing energy consumption, and adopting eco-friendly processes, companies can not only minimize their environmental footprint but also cut costs and enhance efficiency. Moreover, consumers are increasingly demanding environmentally responsible products and services. Embracing sustainability isn't just morally commendable—it's a smart business move. Companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability not only attract environmentally conscious consumers but also foster loyalty and trust. In essence, sustainability is no longer a choice; it's a strategic imperative. By aligning profitability with environmental stewardship, businesses can pave the way for a more sustainable future while reaping the rewards of long-term success. Let's embark on this journey together, where profitability and sustainability go hand in hand. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this pivotal topic! How do you envision the role of businesses in shaping a more sustainable world? Let's continue the conversation in the comments below. #Sustainability #BusinessStrategy #ProfitWithPurpose
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Sustainability is more than just a trend; it's a commitment to creating a world where our actions today build a better tomorrow. Imagine a future where we use resources wisely, ensuring they are available for generations to come, while keeping our ecosystems vibrant and resilient. Embracing sustainability means committing to a future where our planet thrives, our economies prosper, and our societies are fair and just for all. Dive deeper into the ABCs of sustainability: https://lnkd.in/g3T_7Vir What are your thoughts on integrating these pillars into business strategies? Let’s discuss! #Sustainability #BusinessInnovation #CorporateResponsibility #SustainableDevelopment #ESGStrategy
ABCs of Sustainability: Understanding the Core Concepts
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