Earthenterprise Tool Kit - International Institute for Sustainable ...

Businesses committed to promoting and profiting from the transition to
sustainable development often have a longer time horizon and a broader set
of goals than traditional companies. Typically, they are unsatisfied with the
status quo and want to operate in a socially responsible manner, as well as
protect and enhance the integrity of complex ecosystems.They value the wellbeing
of employees, societies, traditional cultures and future generations.They
cannot afford to ignore short-term cash flow, but their own definition of success
is more sophisticated and includes a range of long-term objectives.
Often, founders of these companies have a well-articulated set of goals and
principles that guide the business and help to instill the same values and
objectives in employees. By declaring their goals publicly they may inspire trust,
create a model for their industries, and provide a benchmark by which actual
achievement can be measured. Smaller companies, which are often at a
disadvantage when recruiting employees, can attract creative and talented staff
by offering workplaces that are more participatory, have greater sensitivity to
work and family issues, share more of the wealth, offer more fun, and
encourage more trust between management and employees.
This broader vision of success requires new business tools, practices and
relationships.Changing the world does not happen in isolation and the number
of organizations willing to help may come as a surprise. Being receptive to new
ideas and suggestions opens the door to an array of opportunities that would
otherwise pass you by.
North America is in the midst of profound social change. Looking out strictly
for number one, shopping until you drop, and dominating the natural world are
no longer viewed as worthy aspirations by many members of society. A large
share of the workforce complains of burnout and lack of job satisfaction.
Protecting the planet, promoting the health and well-being of employees and
communities,and enjoying some good natured fun together enables companies
to bring meaning and gratification back to the workplace. This section of the
Tool Kit is designed to provide you with the means to prosper during the ’90s
— “the decency decade”. The current focus on environment, empowerment,
education, enjoyment and ethics is not likely to be a passing fad. People are
finally waking up to the need for workplaces that protect our environment, our
social well-being, and our future.
Internal Consistency
EarthEnterprise Tool Kit
Ensuring that the values of sustainable development permeate throughout the
company, from CEO to purchasing agent to distribution and marketing usually
starts at the CEO’s office.The best intentions are meaningless, however, if they
reside in the head of only one individual in the company. Forming or changing
ADOPTING NEW BUSINESS PRACTICES AND RELATIONSHIPS
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