Companies are no longer choosing between maximizing shareholder value and being socially responsible, columnist John Gapper of the Financial Times says. In fact, he adds, firms in the U.S. going "carbon neutral" can leverage environmental credentials to attract a new customer base.
Gapper's position is in line with the body of work and experience in private sector development pointing to the growing effect of market forces in strengthening eco-conscious activities and businesses. As Gapper says: "The market is voting on whether to do something about global warming". And companies are responding. That is precisely how "Corporate self-interest can be a force for good, " the author says, helping to drive reforms, while developing new market niches and business lines.
I was on the Social Venture Network’s website today and came across this contest for socially responsible business leaders: www.svn.org/imaginewhatsnext. It looks like a great way to reward new businesses for working toward the greater good including being a green business.
Posted by: Katie | June 27, 2007 at 08:14 PM