Business Lunch

2 October

Hon James Shaw MP, Green Party co-leader

“Sustainability in business could be our biggest challenge – but I believe it’s also our biggest opportunity.” James Shaw laid down the gauntlet to his audience at North Shore Golf Club, acknowledging that trying to connect huge global problems to everyday business in Albany can feel overwhelming. He told the story of Interface, a carpet company that has taken its eco-responsibilities to heart since 1994, embarking on their “sustainability journey” to Mission Zero® – but simultaneously increasing their market share. “It’s mythological that there have to be trade-offs,” said James.

At their tables, attendees then had the chance to discuss their own environmental initiatives. Not only was it great to hear what Business North Harbour members are already doing, but fresh ideas were shared, and new alliances were formed. Look out for more details of these in future issues of FYI magazine!

In summing up, James urged business owners to invest the time, energy and commitment into sustainability as they would any other strategy in order to ensure their return on investment. “It’s not all gloom and doom. We can fix this, and create a cleaner, more vibrant world.”