Sustainable Detroit Forum

Opinion – Things Evolve and All is Emergent

, , ,

We Americans are an interesting lot: for all of the great qualities of our “anything is possible” culture, there are some that defy imagination. The reaction to the most recent United States Business Roundtable (USBR) statement is a case in point.

As we read in this month’s lead story, the USBR statement is certainly a good sign for those of us committed to the sustainable, triple bottom line business movement. On the other hand, to go from a good sign to the complete conversion of our entire economic system is a bit of stretch. Yet, some seem to think the USBR statement has brought the US to the precipice of becoming a northern European style social-democracy overnight!

More

Opinion – A Hedge Against Wealth Disparity: Employee Owned Businesses

, ,

We live in an age of income and wealth disparity. A recent Pew Research study indicates, “The highest-earning fifth of U.S. families earned 59.1% of all income, the richest fifth held 88.9% of all wealth.” Other measures indicate equally disturbing trends. What is it about this system that leads to the grotesque disparities we see?

One criticism has to do with business ownership. In this system, business ownership is reserved for those who have access to sufficient capital and are willing to take the risk of starting a business. The owners of the business are those who benefit from its profitability, and the argument goes, since they took the risk, they ought to enjoy the spoils.

More

Want to Help Challenge the Status Quo? MiSBI is Hiring!

, ,

The Michigan Sustainable Business Initiative (MiSBI), a collaborative of the American Sustainable Business Council (ASBC), SMSBF, the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum (WMSBF) and the People First Economy, is seeking candidates for its Statewide Coordinator Role.

Nothing happens in a vacuum. The present, neo-liberal system of economics didn’t occur on its own: It evolved over many years and relies on policy that favors the “maximize shareholder value” model of business. To change this system to one that is sustainable, triple bottom line, local, diverse and resilient will take progressive business policy. And this is what the MiSBI seeks to do: challenge the status quo.

More

Who Are Your Stakeholders? Identify, Prioritize, and Engage

, ,

Have you ever tried to make a list of everyone that affects or is affected by your company? It can be quite a daunting task; but, one that can greatly impact your success. Identifying stakeholders in a company or a specific project will allow you to holistically analyze your goals, needs, and challenges and make sure you put your limited resources to the right initiatives.

Broadly, stakeholders can be thought of in two groups: Internal and external, individuals or organizations that impact or are impacted by your organization. While the exact list will be specific to each business, generally this can include:

More

2nd Annual Sustainable Detroit Forum Showcases Local Efforts In Sustainability

, , , , , ,

 Story by Robert Mattler

 

Host and platinum sponsor, Wayne State University (WSU), along with the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) Detroit Region, held an all-day conference at WSU’s Student Center on October 24th to discuss the present state of sustainability in Motown.  The day was filled with Keynote speakers, a panel discussion and presentations that highlighted some of the recent key advances in building a more resilient and sustainable community for all. More

Proudly Powered By:
World Web Wizards