The global economy has experienced several tectonic shifts in the last 50 years, including one driven by the revolution in information technology, telecommunications, and the Internet. Many experts believe that the climate crisis is creating yet another dramatic change. How we navigate that change will become a defining challenge of our time.
This new paradigm is forcing leaders across the globe to adapt in ways that will ensure we can both protect our planet and create a thriving, dynamic economy. Finding solutions requires bold steps.
Young people are at the forefront–the next generation sees clearly how the actions we take now have consequences that could define both their future and the future of our planet. Business leaders around the world are also elevating the issue–customers, employees, and other stakeholders are pressing them to prioritize sustainability.
The world of business is responding and changing. Success is no longer defined simply by maximizing profit. Businesses are increasingly focused on how the climate impacts their business and how their business impacts the climate. At the same time, businesses also are starting to recognize that sustainability also must include diverse boards and leadership, supply chain adaptations, and impacts on diverse communities.
Yet, as the Financial Times reported, businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to find enough leaders with the skills necessary to help them build a sustainable future. In fact, a recent LinkedIn report predicts that demand for green talent outpaces supply, and the talent gap appears to be growing.
At American University, sustainability is a culture that’s visible across our campus. We have made bold investments, infusing sustainability into our DNA–from our 84-acre campus that’s an accredited Arboretum and Public Gardens to green buildings that use energy-efficient technologies and our focus on human health. Sustainability is part of our curriculum, research, physical plant, and systems.
We’re not only the first university to reach carbon neutrality–we met our goal two years early. We use 100 percent renewable energy, eliminated fossil fuel investments from our endowment, and do much more to ensure we have a small footprint. We have made meaningful progress but have much more to do.