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By Graham Russell and Martha Young
Most large corporations in the U.S. and around the world have recognized the imperative to transition to a more sustainable global economic model and are reaping the business benefits of sustainability-based strategies. However Most small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) are not following suit, at least in the U.S.
Why not?
SMEs, defined as those businesses with less than 500 employees, are the growth engine of the U.S. economy, traditionally accounting for most of its innovation and new job creation. An exaggeration you say? Well, consider these statistics regarding SMEs gleaned from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Advocacy’s website:
Think of sustainability/green practices as free money. What could you do with the money saved by a 10 to 15 percent reduction in your electric bill? How about a similar reduction in your waste removal expenses? What would you gain with less employee turnover? There are a variety of opportunities that can contribute to a company’s financial viability. Our goal is to help you identify them and execute in a rapid manner.
Graham has more than 25 years of CEO experience in the environmental services industry. He currently teaches sustainable business at the University of Colorado, Denver MBA program and chairs the School’s Managing for Sustainability Advisory Council. He is also on the board of the International Society of Sustainability Professionals.
Martha has been an industry analyst and writer for well over 20 years. Her expertise is in small and mid-sized businesses, information technology and energy. She has co-authored four books, and sits on the board of two Texas-based small businesses.
Graham Russell and Martha Young, co-founders of Sustainability4SMEs
Sustainability4SMEs: Graham Russell & Martha Young
Graham Russell brings 25 years of CEO experience in the environmental services industry to his current role as a sustainability professional. He currently teaches sustainable business in the University of Colorado, Denver MBA program and chair’s the School’s Managing for Sustainability Advisory Council. He provides sustainability and cleantech consulting services to SMEs through TrupointAdvisors and is on the board of the International Society of Sustainability Professionals.
Martha Young has been an industry analyst and writer for 20 years. Her expertise is in small and mid-sized businesses, information technology and energy. Young co-authored four books on virtual business processes (cloud computing), and project management for IT. She is on the board of two small Texas-based businesses, and acts in a technical advisory and business strategy capacity for an east coast venture capitalist.