18.05.2010

Becoming Greener

"Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs." - Gro Harlem Brundtland, 1987
This quote captures the essence of what the ICI Paints AkzoNobel sustainability strategy aims to do, and crucially, why it aims to do it. We stand as proof that an holistic approach to sustainability can not only lead to a tangibly reduced environmental impact for a manufacturer and its products, but the development of innovative products and solutions that provide new business opportunities. more29.01.2010

Design in Harmony with Natural Cycles

Full Circle - An organization pursuing sustainability as a growth opportunity engenders a focus on enhancing benefits (not only reducing costs) through its decision-making and actions - taking an approach of maximization rather than minimization. The organization can understand the perspective of "people, planet and profits" as expansionist and enabling leadership through the achievement of advanced success metrics. more29.01.2010

Celebrating The Human Footprint

Michael Braungart has something of a celebrity status in countries such as the Netherlands and the U.S., where he has inspired politicians and celebrities alike with his Cradle to Cradle concept. In his home country of Germany, however, the chemist is often labeled as an enviro-nut - a monicker usually reserved for the Birkenstock-loving, health-food store frequenting population. But Braungart is more realist than idealist, and his idea is simple: Make products that are not "less bad," but rather products that are good for the environment. more