Extract from IISD article: “Businesses keen to profit from the transition to sustainable development often have a longer time-horizon and a broader set of goals than traditional companies. Typically they are dissatisfied with the status quo and want to operate in a socially responsible manner, as well as protect the environment. They value the well-being of employees, society, culture and future generations. Whilst they cannot afford to ignore short-term cash flow, their definition of success is more sophisticated and long-term.” – This article looks at what businesses can do by being internally consistent, externally credible and in through forging external partnerships.

The webpage also has handly links to a range of well-known organisations providing ‘guiding principles’ to business.

Find out more about the Business and Sustainability Global Guide from the International Institute for Sustainable Development (ISSD) Business and Sustainabile Development home page including a range of business tools.

This site explains the strategies and tools that companies can use to translate an aspiration for sustainability into practical, effective solutions. Case studies from around the world are provided.

The site’s six sections cover:

• Key issues: briefings on specific sustainable development topics from a business perspective
• Strategies and tools: how to incorporate the principle of sustainability into everyday business activities, illustrated by real-life examples
• Markets: business opportunities arising from sustainable development
• Banking and investment: spotlight on how sustainable development is being approached by the financial services industry
• Working with NGOs: how businesses are forging working partnerships with lobby groups
• Training opportunities: how universities and professional training providers can help industry leaders incorporate sustainability into their business strategies

The above Guide was published in 2002 as a general guide for the private sector: its content is foundational and continues to be relevant.