How business can improve the world, not just the bottom line | Esha Chhabra
Mar 4, 2024
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Esha Chhabra, an outspoken environmental business journalist, challenges businesses to shift from profit-driven models to regenerative practices that benefit both the planet and people. She discusses how sustainability often masks inaction and highlights examples of companies like Veja, which prioritize social and environmental impact. Chhabra's insights emphasize the urgent need for a transformation in business strategies, advocating for innovative approaches that integrate purpose into every aspect of operations, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.
Sustainability must move beyond marketing to drive real change in businesses.
Regenerative businesses prioritize holistic impact over profit maximization.
Deep dives
Transition from Sustainable to Regenerative Businesses
Traditional business models focused on growth and profit have led to environmental and social challenges. This has prompted a shift towards sustainable businesses initially, where companies incorporated eco-friendly practices for marketing purposes. However, sustainability alone falls short in addressing the core purpose and impact of businesses. The evolution towards regenerative businesses emphasizes restoring and revitalizing communities and industries while prioritizing social and environmental problem-solving over profit maximization.
Regenerative Business Approach and Impact
Regenerative businesses distinguish themselves by integrating impact across all aspects of their operations, going beyond a single charitable initiative. These companies prioritize solving social and environmental problems at the core of their existence. They engage in multi-layered impact strategies, such as considering environmental sustainability in the supply chain, fostering human connections in service industries, and implementing innovative funding models like profit sharing or employee ownership to drive social impact.
Examples of Regenerative Companies
The podcast provides examples of regenerative businesses like Veja, a shoe brand that demonstrates a holistic approach to impact. Veja's supply chain actively preserves the Amazon, empowers marginalized communities by providing sustainable livelihoods, and supports ethical production practices. Another case study is Technicians for Sustainability, a company in Arizona that shares profits with employees working on renewable energy installations, emphasizing employee ownership and social investment. These examples showcase how regenerative businesses rethink waste, engage in community partnerships, and prioritize holistic impact beyond profit-driven motives.
"Sustainability has become more marketing than action," says environmental business journalist Esha Chhabra. Challenging conventional business models solely focused on profit, she shares how regenerative companies that embed purpose into every facet of their operations can drive real change — and make things better for people and the planet.