What is Sustainability Leadership?

There are many definitions of sustainability. When focused on the ecosystem, the most
commonly used definitions was written in 1987 by the United Nation’s Brundtland Commission,
“Meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs.” This definition of sustainability denotes that although
current populations may use what they need regarding the earth’s capital, this must be done is a
manner which will leave ample resources for others, with minimal waste. The onus is both on
each person to modify his/her behaviors as well as organizations to prevent over-consumption
and reduce waste, to ensure a sustainable and healthy future. Socially and environmentally
responsible business practices reduce operational expenditures and improve stakeholder
relations, as well as increase profitability and competitive advantage.

Sustainability encompasses 3 key interlocking aspects: environmental, social and economic.

According to John Elkingon’s triple bottom line, the People, the Planet and Profits are inter-
reliant: “society depends on the economy and the economy depends on the global ecosystem,
whose health represents the ultimate bottom line.” Sustainability Leadership embraces the triple
bottom line concept; the definition is: mindful actions and behaviors embracing a global world-
view to recognize the connection between the planet and humanity; thereby, through personal
and organizational choices, effects positive environmental and social change.

There are a variety of Sustainability Leadership principles.

 Understanding the interconnections of systems. It is vital to recognize how each group of

related factors (people, objects, processes, etc…) are connected and impact each
 Think globally and toward the future. Consider what current and future impacts you are
making with each decision on other countries, society, oceans, animals, communities, waste,
resources, etc…
 Protect nature and people. Distinguish how actions taken affect people and the
environment. Try to make decisions that will reduce the negative impacts on 2nd and 3rd
levels of people, processes, the environment, and economies.
 Transform business as usual. Do something different within your span of control. Change a
habit which reduces waste such as reading via an e-book or printing double sided.
 Lead by example in your actions. Be responsible for yourself, your job, your actions, and
your organization. Hold the organization accountable to lead by example in its actions. Hold
yourself accountable to reduce waste and increase efficiency