ABSTRACT
Sustainability describes principles that minimize negative environmental and social impacts, both now and in the future. Businesses are increasingly adopting sustainability principles, and their reasons for doing so are continually evolving. Sustainability principles are not directly compelled by law. Popular awareness of climate change is influencing consumers’ purchasing behavior. A growing number of consumers demand products and services that offer a reduced “environmental footprint.” Wal-Mart advances the sustainability concept by challenging its suppliers to wring as much waste as possible from their manufacturing and distribution efforts. The sustainable business model is one that optimizes financial, environmental, and social performance all at once. Forward-thinking corporations are protecting themselves by demonstrating their social and environmental stewardship. Many companies simply offer the public a sustainable business vision statement. Energy cost control is high on the list of sustainable business opportunities. The farmer stakes out a fixed territory and produces value by systematically sowing, tending, and harvesting valuable crops.
