In conjunction with the global release of their very bold “Sustainable Living Plan” last week, I was greatly encouraged by the words chosen by Unilever CEO Paul Polman when asked to summarize what the corporation hopes to achieve:
“Many would say making consumption sustainable is impossible. Our view is that we have to make it possible. We cannot choose between growth and sustainability. We have to do both.”
Those last five words truly summarize the ideal marriage of what a company with high CSR standards should be looking to achieve. ‘We have to do both’ is more than just a mantra but ultimately a balance has to be struck from the largest corporations down to those who may employ just two or three individuals. It’s a statement that applies to businesses throughout the world, there is no escaping the reality that businesses exist to make money for their owners, employees and shareholders but businesses also need to find a winning strategy that will encompass growth and sustainability exactly as Mr. Polman has suggested.
See full Press Release.
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