Business conference to remove fear factor

3 October 2005

Business conference to remove fear factor

The Sustainable Business Network (SBN) is challenging businesses to let go of their fears and accept that being environmentally friendly is good for the country and good for business.

The network is hosting a two-day conference for businesses with the aim of providing a common sense and practical approach to achieving sustainability.

Chair of the Sustainable Business Network and Managing Director of Phoenix Organics, Chris Morrison, says environmental gains and profits do not have to be mutually exclusive and can be achieved by providing businesses with sound information and appropriate tools.

"There are things business can do to contribute to an improved quality of life and a healthy environment that won't break the bank or put them at a competitive disadvantage," says Mr Morrison.

"In New Zealand we are following overseas trends with people placing increasing value on quality of life and the environment and businesses that make a strategic decision to become more sustainable will ultimately reap the benefits in domestic and international markets."

As well as practical advice, examples and tools and a glimpse of local and international success stories, the conference is hosting a panel of leading international experts. Bob Willard, a former IBM executive and respected author will cover sustainability as a business strategy and a catalyst for business transformation.

Sally Uren is a business consultant and overseer of the partnership between the UK's leading sustainable development charity and multinationals including Unilever, BP, GlaxoSmithKline, ICI and Vodafone. Her address will look at sustainability as a core function of business success.

Tessa Tennant, Executive Chair of the Association for Sustainable and Responsible Investment in Asia, will describe why sustainable and responsible investment is one of the fastest growing areas of investment management.

In Mr Morrison's opinion sustainable development makes good business sense, and he should know - his company Phoenix Organics continues to grow from strength to strength.

Businesses that want to contribute to a New Zealand that is truly 'clean and green' as well as improve their bottom line should attend the Sustainable Business Network conference.

The conference is being held at Auckland's Aotea Centre from October 12 - 13. For further information visit www.sustainable.org.nz/conference2005

ENDS

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