It wasn’t until recently that American business started discovering that what’s good for the planet is also good for the bottom line. In fact, the link between green and profit is still pretty hidden, especially from consumers. It shouldn’t be: thus the national television rollout of So Right So Smart.
The award-winning feature revolves around the true story of entrepreneur Ray Anderson, owner of Interface, the world’s largest designer and maker of carpet tile. Anderson started the company and achieved success, but something was missing. After a “Eureka!” moment when he saw the link between successful business and a healthy planet, he began transforming his enterprise into an environmentally sustainable international corporation.
Surprising many, the profits grew and grew. Anderson had succeeded in marrying industry and ecology. The Washington Post called him “the Greenest CEO in America.” He called himself a “radical industrialist.”
The basic tale of Anderson’s astonishing conversion comes to us straight from the man, before his untimely death from cancer. I watched with interest as this very relaxed, likable guy narrated the tale of his epiphany with geniality and smarts. Interviewed by The New York Times, Ray—it’s so tempting to use his first name—talked about the massive differences his ethical approach has made:
“I always make the business case for sustainability. It’s so compelling. Our costs are down, not up. Our products are the best they have ever been…. And the goodwill in the marketplace—it’s just been astonishing.”
cleantechnica
