Response paper week 9 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Response paper week 9 - Essay Example The call for transparency requires companies to account for their environmental and social impacts (Natrass and Altomore, 1999). The questions addressed in john’s post help to tackle the topic adequately because they cover a lot about the topic. In their book, Green to Gold, Esty and Winston point out that companies can generate lasting value, minimize costs, reduce risks, and increase revenues if they engage in sustainable practices. Sustainability is best achieved by companies that embrace environmental responsibility, care for the triple bottom line, and improve their reputation. Esty and Winston emphasize on companies being responsible with regard to the environment in which they operate, that is, cleanliness and social well being. Natrass, Hawken and Altomore insist on the cyclic principle, that is, how waste can be recycled to avoid environmental pollution. Corporate accountability is well covered by Epstein (2008). I work St. Jude Medical Inc . where the employee of the week is rewarded for exceptional performance as a motivation towards strategy achievement. The company sponsors the best student of the year in the community for further studies. I like the way Soosai has addressed the role of employees who are not in the leadership position in pushing sustainability initiatives. Many constituents have a legitimate stake in company activities calling for a variety of interests and opinions required in developing sustainability strategies. A company’s long term value is largely influenced by the expertise and commitment of the employees. Since subordinates are part of drivers of sustainability performance, leaders can use feedback loops to evaluate and improve corporate strategies. Educated and trained individuals are better sensitized to sustainability issues. I do not agree with the referencing of Lovins and Hawken. In their book, Natural Capitalism, the authors assert that