Author Description

with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development 'An understanding of the business value to be gained from efficient use of natural resources is an important first step toward sustainability: toward building a world in which resources are managed to meet the needs of all people now and in the future. I hope all business leaders will read this book and take its message to heart.' -- Jonathan Lash, President, World Resources Institute Since the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, many companies have become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their activities and of how good environmental practices can provide a competitive advantage. The term 'eco-efficiency' describes business activities that create economic value while reducing ecological impact and resource use. This book describes the principles of eco-efficiency and presents case studies of a number of international companies, including 3M and the Dow Chemical Company. It also discusses the value of partnerships--with other companies, business associations, communities, regulators, and environmental and other non-governmental groups. In the conclusion, the authors argue that business must change to become eco-efficient and that governments need to change the conditions under which business operates, including tax and regulatory regimes, to make them more conducive to eco-efficiency. Livio D. DeSimone, CEO of 3M, and Frank Popoff, Chairman of the Dow Chemical Company, wrote the book with the World business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). The WBSCD is a global organization that acts as business's advocate on issues related to the environment and sustainable development.