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From these profiles, you’ll gain a new understanding of:
- Triple Bottom Line: people, planet, profits
- Stakeholder Economy VS Shareholder Economy
- Local Living Economies
- Natural Capitalism
- Social Enterprise
- Environmental Footprint
Business schools often don’t address the topic of achieving greater profit through environmental practices — but companies on the leading edge are doing just that!
Whether it is simply “picking the low-hanging fruit” through recycling and more efficient lighting, or designing toxins out of their processes (to the relief of bankers and insurers), businesses are finding unforeseen profits and competitive advantage by becoming more eco-friendly.
It’s Greek to me!
The connection between business and the environment is intrinsic:
The root of “economy” is the Greek work “oikos,” which means “house.” “Oikonomia” means the management of a household or state. “Ecology” shares the same root, “house.” The planet is the house from which all abundance (and all business) derives.
Businesses do not exist in a vacuum; they are embedded in communities. Business leaders who “lay down a stake in the community” by actively encouraging employees to volunteer — with matching time off from work — find they are rewarded with committed workers who are healthier and happier, with less down time and fewer stress-related illnesses. And the community wants to support those businesses!
The nature of innovation is that it jumps across sectors. Hearing about an advance in a seemingly unrelated business often sparks an idea for change in another arena. Some of the people Ellen highlights used their professional training as the platform for innovation; others were inspired by an arena outside their own industry.
PROFILES INCLUDE:
Storm Cunningham, “The Restoration Economy” — turning problems into assets
Jessica Fullmer, “Sustainable Business Institute” — boosting profit while becoming more eco-friendly
Judy Wicks, “White Dog Café” — where gourmet food, engaged community, and local living economies intersect
Stewart Levine, “Agreements from Conflict” — deep resolution and clear agreement building
Mike Hannigan, “Business as a Vehicle to
Sustain Nonprofits” — creating thriving businesses by donating all profits to nonprofits chosen by customers and employees
David Yudkin, “Carbon Emissions as a Filter for Gourmet Restaurant Decisions” — minimizing global warming through purchasing local organic vegetables, capturing excess oven heat, and choosing electric mini-cars for the delivery fleet
Nothing remains the same. If you’re not on the wave of the changing marketplace, you’ll bear the cost in decreased revenues, resources, and lost opportunity. Ellen will help you find new inspiration for the innovation that will keep your company growing!
“The Alliance of Chief Executives very much enjoyed your creative suggestions
and personal philosophy. I trust that your presentation will result in many of us
changing in a fashion that has a positive impact on not only our own lives, but
also our employees, our loved ones, and hopefully the community at large.”
— Paul Witkay, Founder and CEO, Alliance of Chief Executives
Presentations are tailored to fit your interests and your timeframe.
For booking information, call 510-428-1832 or email ellen@ellenaugustine.com.
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