This post sees us delving into business and how business models may be changing as capitalism and the might of the big corporation starts to wane. This is a broad topic. In the interests of not being here for pages and pages, I will focus on some specific examples of rethinking business that I have been introduced to in the last few years.
Let’s start with a look at the impact the global business community has on ecosystem services and biodiversity. This force has mostly been for ill in the decades since the Industrial Revolution. However, this business force can be harnessed for good.
Grab a cup of tea, sit back and relax while watching this 30 minute video – Our Planet: Our Business. This is a beautifully presented collaboration between WWF and Our Planet.
There is a lot to process here. For me, one of the main takeaways was the changing nature of business already at play. It fills me with a sense of hope.
We now have a business model spectrum to work with.
Again, there is a lot to unpack here and beyond the scope of a simple blog post. What is interesting to note is the fact that the statistics are beginning to show a move away from the purely profit-driven models and traditional investment. It seems responsible and ethical investment are becoming more the norm. This is certainly encouraging.
I learned about this spectrum and what is happening in the world of impact investment by completing a GVI Online course – Impact Measurement. I highly recommend courses like this if you are contemplating a responsible and ethical startup somewhere on this spectrum.
So how do we as consumers figure out whether the businesses that supply our goods and services are responsible and ethical – socially and environmentally?
There are actually a number of different certifications these days whether it be cruelty free, fair trade or sustainably sourced.
A game changer for me has been learning about Certified B Corporations.
This certification is gaining ground. I am seeing the logo on products more and more. So encouraging!
Here’s a few examples this side of the world (Australia/New Zealand):
Why do B Corps matter? Check out this little video clip…
Here is another video clip. I like this explanation of B Corps…
We have only scratched the surface on this topic. But I am optimistic about the future when the evidence suggests there are many humans out there determined to rewrite business models, and rethink what we’ve constructed in past decades. Old, outdated ways of doing business can be undone for the good of all.
So I encourage you to be mindful of what you consume. Do a little homework into the businesses you support. Where are they on the new business spectrum? How can you encourage them to do even more for people and the planet?
Leaving you with a last bit of inspiration…