By Thomas Sheffield
The United States economy is the most powerful in the world and the biggest economy in history. This means consumers and workers run the economy. The money we earn and spend are very powerful tools. We decide who gets the money we have earned. This also means we have a responsibility to use our money in a way that is productive and will not destroy our planet. We must make sure the companies we support are being socially, environmentally and financially responsible. We are able to influence the way companies act by the decisions we make with our wallets.
We are part of a material economy. The five stages are: extraction, production, distribution, consumption and disposal. However, there is a lot missing from this system. People are also part of this economy. We have a say in how these five stages are managed. Sustainable business practices ensure these stages are managed in an effective and efficient way.
There is a better way for us to be responsible for what we have and the decisions we make with our purchases. I believe there is a better way to do business. I do believe there is a better way to consume our purchases. I believe there is a better way to dispose of them once we use it. It must start now and it must start today. We must be better examples for our children so they will not have to solve all the problems that we have created.
I challenge you to do business with organizations that are responsible. How can you find out if the company is sustainable and uses green business practices? You can find out by looking at the corporate profile on line and see if they have a sustainability plan. Sustainability plans show how the company is adhering to sustainability principles and how close they are to achieving these goals. The plans should include environmental, social and governance targets and benchmarks. 3 of the biggest moves were made by 3 big companies. CVS made a bold move by taking tobacco products out of their stores. McDonalds has announced they plan on purchasing sustainable beef in 2016 and Walmart has become a leader in sustainability with its Sustainablity360 program.
Each year more companies are becoming aware of the value in becoming more sustainable. We as consumers must also become more aware and make better decisions with our money. We must keep the pressure on these companies to do more to benefit the planet. This is not the only way to make a change but it is one of the quickest and most effective ways. We must support businesses that support us and value the planet we share. If these things inspire you, and you need help to learn how to do more, please feel free to contact me thomsustainableconsulting@gmail.com. Or you can follow me on Twitter @tcsheff. You can also check out my web site: thomsustainableconsulting.com.