Taiga Company

In a recent article by Michael D. Lemonick, “Top 10 Myths about Sustainability” , Mr. Lemonick discusses some of the common misunderstandings about "sustainability". One of the common myths listed is that sustainability is a synonym for “green” or the environment. This is just one conversation amongst many on the topic of sustainability.
 
At Taiga Company, we view sustainability, specifically business sustainability, as a convergence of several conversations. In our professional consulting, business sustainability is an all encompassing discussion of: the environment, society, and continued business/economic growth.
 
    · The most common and recognized topic related to business sustainability is the “green” conversation or a discussion about the environment. In business, these are typically discussions about resources, waste streams or operational emissions.
 
    · The next most common conversation related to business sustainability is the discussion of societal impacts. Businesses discuss employee issues, diversity, human rights, and labor standards.
 
    · Discussions which are attracting greater attention are related to business/economic growth. Business sustainability is included in discussions of continued earnings growth, stable cash flow, and shareholder return.
 
However, these topics unto themselves do not complete the entirety of the business sustainability discussion. As you merge these individual conversations, further discussions begin to unfold.
 
    · When the environmental conversation merges with social impacts, a new set of socio-environmental topics enter the discussion. Environmental issues affecting the greater society and business are discussed. Discussion topics such as Climate Change begin to receive attention.
 
    · The merging conversations of environmental and business growth lead to the topic of eco-efficiency. Companies begin to recognized and discuss the value creation of resource efficiency and product stewardship.
 
    · The convergence of social and business growth creates a socio-economic  discussion. Here the business community and general society discuss the topics such as unemployment.
 
Business sustainability is a large topic that affects every business and industry differently. A high priority conversation for one company may not even be on the radar of another. Engaging in the right conversations with key stakeholders can make all the difference.
 
At Taiga Company, we have small business resources that can help frame and facilitate the discussion in your organization.