Return on Sustainability

Return on Sustainability: How Business Can Increase Profitability and Address Climate Change in an Uncertain Economy is a 2013 book authored by Kevin Wilhelm and published by the Financial Times Press and Pearson PLC. In it, Wilhelm highlights best practices on how to capitalize on the numerous business opportunities that climate change presents, including increased profitability, enhanced brand value, improved shareholder relations, as well as the risk of inaction.
Key Concepts
Return on Sustainability explains that “climate change touches on every aspect of business operations and presents unique opportunities to make money and reduce costs.” The aspects of business operations include:
• Industry leadership
• Energy
• Transportation
• Supply chain
• Waste
• Employee retention/morale
• Investor relations
• Brand value/Customer loyalty
• Tax incentives
• Public policy/regulations
• New carbon markets
The first section contains case studies of companies, such as Yakima, Sun Microsystems, and Lockheed Martin, that have improved their climate performances, enhanced brand value, and increased profitability. The second and third sections of the book focus on the various risks that companies face from potential carbon regulation and the market factors forcing businesses to take action.
 
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