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SUSTAINABILITY

Dr. Ron Lembke

What is “Sustainability?”

The ability to keep doing something for the

indefinite future

If it’s not profitable, it’s not sustainable

What allows a company to survive?

Meeting customer demands

Developing new products

Keeping costs low

Treehugger Fringe

Industry Thinks it’s Important

Triple Bottom Line

“development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs” Brundtland Commission (1987)

Environment (Planet) What is your impact on the planet?

Society (People) What is your impact on people?

Economic Performance (Profits) How are your profits?

Measurement Clearer alignment to corporate strategy

Long-term targets, measurement systems

Transparent reporting

Corporate America Catches On

GE – Frank Mantero, Director Corporate Citizenship Programs

Investing and Delivering in Citizenship

Audited, like financial statements

40% of value based on reputation

It’s not “giving” back – it’s a partnership

Wal-Mart

Sustainable Supply Chain

“We’re making money at this”

600% increase in carbon reporting consulting

Corporate Reporting

Conclusions

Companies are increasingly taking “Sustainability”

more seriously

Exactly what does that mean?

Stay tuned. More in the next talk.