GEF

Unit 1  |  Introduction to Sustainability 23 Consumer choices can have an impact on sustainability. 1.4  Business and Sustainability The importance of and potential for sustainability is felt strongly in some corporations. The Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) defines corporate sustainability as “a business approach that creates long-term shareholder value by embrac- ing opportunities and managing risks deriving from economic, environmental, and social developments.” Corporations are looking for ways to earn profits while practicing sustainability. ?  DID YOU KNOW Archeologists have discov- ered many past civilizations were destroyed when the people did not understand important sustainability factors. For example, the inhabitants of Easter Island cut down the island’s trees. The deforestation led to soil erosion, and a decline in food production and biodiversity. Learning from past civilizations gives us the chance to avoid repeating similar mistakes.