| Fortunately, some corporations already have made a strategic commitment to environmental and social behaviours, for one reason or another, and have pursued sustainable development agendas that make them models of best practice in their respective industries. Unfortunately, there are too few companies adopting sustainability strategies to create a groundswell of responsible business practices. Too many corporations turn a deaf ear to well-researched, affordable approaches that would help restore a sustainable balance among the growing human population, economic prosperity, quality of life, rising levels of pollution, and threats to natural systems that support all life on Earth.; Are drivers that triggered the first wave of companies to commit to sustainability strategies necessary and sufficient to engage lagging companies? Are there other critical needs or arguments that must be addressed before companies engage in sustainable practices? Using language accessible to business executives, I explore the "whys" and "why-nots" of corporate commitment to sustainable development, with particular attention to the supportive role played by a compelling business case. Based on extensive literature reviews, interviews with experts, and personal reflection, I analyze motivations that brought some corporations to a leadership position in sustainability, explore typical reasons why other corporations lag leaders, and outline effective counter-arguments to overcome inhibitors.; My intent is to help mobilize sustainability champions with approaches and ideas that help them convince enough skeptical executives to commit to sustainability strategies that the tipping point is reached in the corporate responsibility movement. |
