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Daniel Goleman makes a very strong case that we are finally coming to a point of convergence where data can be harnessed to support the transition to a more sustainable economy. We see governments moving toward new regulations and citizen consumers seeking out products made in a less toxic, more just and earth-friendly fashion. According to McKinsey, 95 percent of CEOs report that businesses must address the social and environmental pressures of society (McKinsey & Co., July 2007), and evidence shows that employees will drive companies' efforts to address sustainability (MIT Sloan Management Review, Sept. 2009).
Increasingly, companies understand that they can strengthen their competitive advantage and reach new heights through innovation and sustainability. Increased collaboration and cooperation among all sectors will accelerate the pace by which companies can achieve sustainability.
My experiences help me understand why sustainability is one of the hardest issues for business and society. Sustainability calls on business leaders to rethink so many aspects of their businesses and re-evaluate current systems. It implores us to have a sense of moral courage and unwavering conviction. This applies directly to employees who, given our recent financial crisis, face such difficult working environments today. So while it may very well be true, as Daniel Goleman states, that certain employees will have a greater ability to bring forth more sustainable solutions for their...