As the need for global sustainability becomes increasingly recognized, politicians, company leaders, community groups, and individuals are proudly announcing their commitment to protect the planet for future generations. This is particularly true as more organizations realize the economic and marketing benefits of using and producing sustainable products and energy sources. The trend has taken on considerable momentum.
The most influential voices for a more sustainable culture come from a wide diverse group of individuals, corporations, and disciplines.
According to recent research by Cone Communications, the millennial demographic is the most committed group to sustainable corporate social responsibility. Indeed, the future is bright for halting and reversing some of the damning environmental effects of past centuries.
The Guardian produced a list of the 30 Most Influential Voices in America based on positive impact on sustainability through social media. The top 5 on their list are:
In 2015, Forbes reported Corporate Knight’s list of the world’s 50 most sustainable companies. Among companies with a market cap exceeding $2 billion, the list is a result of analyses of companies that make the best use of their resources while maximizing financial and employee performance. The rating is achieved by evaluating 12 performance indicators. For resource management, the judges compare the uses of energy, emissions, water use, and waste generated. Holistically, the survey also measures financial and overall company sustainability when evaluating employee performance, diversity, and turnover, along with profitability and management practices.
With any social change, certain highly motivated individuals play a critical role in spreading the word and hammering home the importance of environmental preservation. This has certainly been the case on the sustainability front.
Who’s your influential sustainability voice? Share your thoughts in the comments!