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Business models for the Anthropocene: accelerating sustainability transformations in the private sector
1University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada.
Sustainability Science
|October 11, 2021
Summary
Transformative business models are essential for addressing climate change. This research proposes five building blocks for purpose-driven business models operating within planetary boundaries to foster sustainable development and resilience.
Area of Science:
- Sustainability Science
- Business Management
- Socio-Ecological Systems
Background:
- Current development approaches are insufficient for escalating climate change impacts.
- Transformation is needed, with the private sector playing a central role.
- Existing business models inadequately address societal and environmental interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for business models anchored in societal purpose and planetary boundaries for the Anthropocene.
- To identify key components for developing transformative business models.
- To guide transdisciplinary scholars and businesses in co-producing sustainability and resilience initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of business models and their role in sustainable development.
- Identification of five building blocks for purpose-driven business models.
- Framework development for integrating sustainability research with entrepreneurial activity.
Main Results:
- Proposes a new conceptualization of business models for the Anthropocene.
- Identifies five building blocks to guide the design of transformative business models.
- Enables the creation of new capabilities for sustainable pathways and resilience.
Conclusions:
- Rethinking business models is crucial for achieving sustainability and resilience.
- Transdisciplinary research can accelerate private sector engagement in sustainability.
- The proposed building blocks offer a guide for businesses committed to sustainable development goals.
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01:43Sustainable Development
As the human population continues to grow and use resources, we must be mindful of our planet’s natural limits. Sustainable development provides a pathway to maintain and improve human life now while also ensuring that future generations will have the resources that they need. The long-term success of sustainability efforts rests on understanding the interplay between human actions and ecological systems.
01:26Design Example: Sustainability in Concrete Building
As the construction industry moves towards more eco-friendly practices, concrete's adaptability and its ability to incorporate sustainable features make it a key material in the drive towards greener building solutions.
There are multiple approaches to achieve sustainability in a commercial concrete building. For instance, construct a concrete parking area under the building, utilizing pervious concrete paver blocks in open areas to facilitate rainwater collection through an underground cistern.
There are multiple approaches to achieve sustainability in a commercial concrete building. For instance, construct a concrete parking area under the building, utilizing pervious concrete paver blocks in open areas to facilitate rainwater collection through an underground cistern.