‘Green’ is more than a word. It is good business. It is a journey. It is also one of three pillars of sustainability.
Using the words “green” and “sustainability” is not a case of “You say ‘po-tay-toe,’ I say ‘po-tah-toe.’” Although the two terms are intricately related, they are not interchangeable. Sustainability, defined by the 1987 Brundtland report, is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their own needs. It preserves the planet for future generations. Sustainability traditionally includes three pillars: economic, social and environmental. Together these three vital areas of a business — profit, people and the planet — create the triple bottom line. Green specifically addresses one of the pillars, environmental responsibility.