News & Insights
The Unintended Consequences of Good Sustainability Intentions
For many years, I have had to opportunity to work with school districts on a variety of waste reduction and recycling projects. Together, we have calculated the cost of purchasing recycled-content paper, figured out cost saving by using a chipper to process tree trimmings and how to set up classroom and cafeteria recycling/food scrap collection programs. School districts are creative and innovative institutions but can also implement projects that create unintended consequences.
San Diego Sustainability Circle Successes: Moving from Plans to Reality
In November, 2013, seven San Diego-area companies embarked on a six-month journey of sustainability learning, interaction and idea generation. Together, these seven participants generated 176 sustainability initiatives or an average of 25 per company and a combined total of $3.5 million in projected annual savings. Here’s a look at what four of the participants have achieved toward these goals.
Sharks, Sloths and Humpback Whales: Lessons in Biomimicry
Biomimicry – the study of how flora and fauna address environmental challenges and their applications for human designs and processes – continues to gain influence in the business, scientific and design communities. It seems animals, plants and microbes have a lot to tell us about the development of environmentally pragmatic and economically viable products and services.
The Basics and the Benefits of Energy Storage
Storage. There’s a lot of talk going around these days regarding storage. But just what is it that’s getting all the attention? How does it work? Where does it work? How can it help me? Or is it just another abstract concept that’s found favor with futurists?
Circle Participant Chula Vista Adopts Sustainability Action Plan
The Chula Vista City Council recently adopted a City Operations Sustainability Plan to help reduce municipal costs, improve local environmental conditions, and lead by example in the community and region. Seven key areas were identified – energy use, water use, green purchasing, waste management, pollution prevention, green buildings and infrastructure.
Flourishing Enterprise: The New Spirit of Business
What if business could increase productivity, social responsibility, and happiness with just a few minor investments that yielded immediate high returns?
New research at Case shows why and how it can be done. It is the subject of a book, Flourishing Enterprise: The New Spirit of Business, published in August 2014 by Stanford University Press.
Colorado River Day: Raising Awareness About Western Water Issues
In general, Californians have fallen far short of meeting Gov. Jerry Brown’s January call for a 20% cut in water use. But the news isn’t all bad. Today July 25th, Colorado River Day — celebrating the day the river was officially renamed from the “Grand” to the “Colorado” — we highlight the role businesses are playing in water conservation and in protecting the Colorado River.
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