Read more: What Happens To Modern Business When Consumers Stop Consuming?

Essential Reads:

Challenges of Ethical Consumption

Navigating ethical consumption under capitalism is nearly impossible, especially for students. Balancing affordability, accessibility, and moral responsibility—such as boycotting unethical brands or prioritizing sustainability—poses constant challenges. The key lies in informed, mindful decisions rather than perfection. Small efforts, like buying secondhand or prioritizing sustainability, collectively make a difference.

Read more: Opinion | Ethical consumption under capitalism

Teaching Smart Shopping

Parents can help kids develop consumer competence by involving them in grocery shopping and explaining their choices. A study from the University of Otago found that children aged 10–12 make thoughtful decisions, balancing family needs, budgets, and ethical considerations. Parental guidance shapes their long-term attitudes toward spending and consumption.

Read more: The nature and development of children's consumer competence: evidence from the aisles

Luxury with Sustainability

Sarah Arora, Co-founder & Creative Director of Sansaar, discusses how luxury and sustainability can coexist in home textiles. She highlights the industry's shift toward eco-friendly materials, ethical sourcing, and technological innovations like AI and digital printing. Sansaar aims to educate consumers on mindful living while maintaining high-end aesthetics and durability.

Read more: Interview with Sarah Arora, Co-founder & Creative Director, Sansaar

Raising Smart Shoppers

A University of Otago study reveals that involving children in grocery shopping helps them develop strong consumer skills. Kids aged 10–12 made thoughtful choices, balancing budgets, nutrition, and ethical values. Parents play a key role by explaining their purchasing decisions, shaping children's long-term spending habits.

Read more: Parents' Guide to Boosting Kids' Consumer Skills

Consumer Rights & Sustainability

Bahrain’s Industry Minister, Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, reaffirmed the commitment to consumer rights and sustainable consumption on World Consumer Rights Day. He highlighted the need for collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society to promote responsible consumption. The ministry aims to educate youth and enhance ethical business practices for a fair and sustainable economy.

Read more: Industry Minister highlights commitment to consumer rights and sustainable consumption

Women Leading Sustainability

On International Women’s Day 2025, inspiring women entrepreneurs are driving the sustainability revolution across industries. From ethical fashion and eco-conscious beauty to green architecture and plant-based living, these trailblazers are redefining business with purpose. Their ventures champion mindful consumption, environmental responsibility, and social impact, paving the way for a greener future.

Read more: International Women's Day Special: Rising Stars Of Sustainable Revolution

Research Corner:

Published in the Journal of Operations Management, this study explores how U.S. consumers form ethical judgments about controversial global sourcing practices and how these perceptions influence their purchasing decisions. Using the Hunt–Vitell framework, the research examines the role of deontological (principle-based) and teleological (outcome-based) evaluations in shaping consumer responses. The findings reveal that ethical concerns significantly impact consumer behavior, with many willing to alter their purchasing decisions based on perceived corporate misconduct. The study also highlights demographic differences in ethical evaluations, offering insights into how businesses can navigate consumer expectations in global supply chains.

Read more: The Effect of Controversial Global Sourcing Practices on Ethical Judgments and Intentions of U.S. Consumers

Quick Takeaways:

• Consumer behavior: Ethical consumption insights shape sustainable strategies.

• Consumer rights: Collaboration is key to responsible consumption and fair business.

• Mindful choices: Small sustainable actions matter more than perfection.

• Smart shopping: Teaching kids consumer skills builds lifelong habits.

• Sustainable luxury: Eco-friendly innovations redefine high-end textiles.

• Women in sustainability: Female leaders drive eco-conscious business growth.

Read more: Lessons Learned: Grove Collaborative's Commitment To Reducing Plastic Waste

Essential Reads:

Plastic Law Delay

California missed its deadline to implement the Plastic Pollution Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54), which aims to cut plastic waste by 23 million tons in 10 years. Gov. Newsom ordered a regulatory redo due to cost concerns, sparking criticism from environmental groups. Advocates fear delays may weaken the law’s impact on pollution and public health.

Read more: California fails to meet deadline to implement landmark plastic reduction law

Plastic Reduction Push

Environmental advocates are renewing efforts for New York’s Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, which aims to cut plastic packaging by 30% over 12 years. The bill would charge companies for excess packaging, funding local municipalities. Supporters highlight persistent plastic waste issues, urging legislation to shift responsibility from consumers to corporations.

Read more: Environmental advocates renew push for NY plastic reduction bill

Plastics & Climate Action

Scientists from RMIT University call for nations to include plastic-related emissions in their climate plans before COP 30. With plastic production expected to triple by 2050, its lifecycle emissions contribute heavily to global warming. Despite this, only 11 out of 194 countries address plastic waste in their NDCs, leaving a major gap in climate policies.

Read more: Time to count plastics in climate action and counter Trump effect

Recycling Barriers

The Alliance to End Plastic Waste and Boston Consulting Group highlight the challenges in achieving a circular economy for plastics. Issues include lack of waste segregation, poor infrastructure, high recycling costs, and weak regulations. Their latest Solution Model Playbook focuses on basic mechanical recycling to extract value from plastic waste and promote sustainable waste management.

Read more: Alliance to End Plastic Waste & BCG: Barriers to Recycling

Egypt’s Plastic Policy

Egypt will enforce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for plastic shopping bags under Decision 662/2025, requiring producers to pay fees for waste disposal. Set to take effect on June 3, 2025, the move aims to curb plastic pollution and ensure accountability. Greenpeace MENA praises the decision as a model for global action ahead of INC5.2 negotiations.

Read more: Greenpeace MENA Commends Egypt’s Decision to Introduce Fees on Producers to Reduce Single-Use Plastic Bags

Plastic-Free Dining

Mount Prospect’s Single-Use Plastic Utensil Reduction Program (S.U.P.U.R.) launches March 14, with 20 businesses committed to reducing plastic waste. Restaurants will only provide utensils upon request, changing the automatic distribution habit. The initiative partners with local businesses, promoting sustainability and cost savings while encouraging eco-conscious dining habits.

Read more: Mount Prospect program aims to reduce single-use plastics

Research Corner:

Published in Manufacturing & Service Operations Management, a recent study explores innovative business models aimed at reducing ocean plastic pollution while balancing profit, environmental, and social impact. The research examines firms that sell plastic offsets and segregated plastic, partnering with local recycling supply chains. It highlights the role of additionality—the requirement that offsets represent newly recycled plastic—and its complex effects on firm performance. The findings suggest that integrating both business models can significantly enhance environmental and social impact. The study provides valuable for businesses and policymakers looking to develop effective solutions for ocean-bound plastic waste.

Read more: Innovative Business Models in Ocean-Bound Plastic Recycling

Quick Takeaways:

• Plastic Law Delay: California’s plastic-reduction law delayed, raising environmental concerns.

• Plastic Reduction Push: NY bill aims to hold corporations accountable for packaging waste.

• Plastics & Climate Action: Scientists urge including plastics in global climate action plans.

• Recycling Barriers: Poor infrastructure, high costs limit effective plastic recycling.

• Plastic Bag Ban: New Mexico considers banning plastic bags in retail to cut waste.

• Egypt’s Plastic Policy: Egypt introduces producer fees for plastic bag disposal to curb pollution.

• Plastic-Free Dining: Illinois town shifts to providing plastic utensils only upon request.

Read more: How Allagash Is Making Beer More Sustainable

Essential Reads:

Brewing Sustainability

The Brewers of Europe applaud the EU’s renewed Vision for Agriculture and Food, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and economic resilience. With over 10,000 breweries and deep ties to agriculture, brewers advocate for better financing, decarbonization, and regulatory support. They seek recognition as key contributors to Europe’s food system and economic future.

Read more: Brewers welcome the EU renewing its vision for agriculture and food

Sustainable Fest

SweetWater 420 Fest celebrates 20 years with bold sustainability efforts, including energy offsets, composting, recycling, and green transportation. Partnering with Greenway Festival Management, the event donates to Waterkeeper Alliance and supports eco-friendly initiatives. A model for sustainable festivals, it inspires greener practices while delivering music, beer, and culture.

Read more: SweetWater 420 Fest Celebrates 20 Years with Bold Sustainability Initiatives

Whisky Trends

India’s whisky industry is booming, with premiumization, sustainability, and innovation driving growth. Rising incomes and evolving preferences fuel demand for high-quality, locally crafted spirits. Trends include RTD whiskies, mixology innovations, and distillery tourism. Challenges like high taxes persist, but strategic branding and global expansion position Indian whisky as a serious premium contender.

Read more: What’s Trending in Whisky Industry for 2025

Beer Trends 2025

The beer industry is evolving with key trends shaping its future. Sustainability, alcohol-free options, craft beer innovations, and unique flavors are driving consumer interest. Regional beer styles, collaboration brews, and immersive experiences enhance engagement. Despite industry challenges, these trends present opportunities for brewers to adapt and thrive.

Read more: 7 beer trends to follow in 2025

Brew a Better Cambodia

HEINEKEN Cambodia and CIRD launched a 14-month training program to equip 500 Cambodian rice farmers with sustainable and smart agricultural techniques. The initiative boosts productivity, reduces costs, and strengthens climate resilience. HEINEKEN’s investment supports local farmers, enhancing crop quality while promoting Cambodia’s rice industry in brewing and global markets.

Read more: Boosting sustainable farming practices and productivity in Cambodia: HEINEKEN Cambodia and CIRD collaborate to support rice farmers

Clean Water Commitment

Carlsberg Vietnam and local brand Huda continue their 'Fresh Water for Beloved Central' initiative, delivering clean water to 9,000 households across central Vietnam. By upgrading filtration systems and enhancing infrastructure, they improve public health, economic growth, and sustainability. This long-term commitment empowers communities and fosters a brighter future.

Read more: Carlsberg Vietnam committed to sustainability in central region

Research Corner:

A study published in Administrative Science Quarterly explores the resurgence of craft beer brewing in the Netherlands as a case of institutional regeneration. After industrialization had nearly erased traditional brewing, remnants of craft practices persisted, allowing for their later revival. The study highlights how past institutional logics can reemerge when actors rediscover and repurpose historical practices, blending them with modern influences. This process not only revitalized traditional beer styles but also reshaped the broader brewing industry by challenging dominant corporate models. The research suggests that regenerative institutional change involves both restoration and adaptation, showing how industries can reconnect with their roots while evolving in response to contemporary forces.

Read more: What is Dead May Never Die: Institutional Regeneration Through Logic Reemergence in Dutch Beer Brewing

Quick Takeaways:

• Brewing Sustainability: EU brewers support sustainable agriculture and policy action.

• Sustainable Fest: SweetWater 420 Fest models eco-friendly festival practices.

• Whisky Trends: Indian whisky industry grows through premiumization and innovation.

• Beer Trends 2025: Sustainability, craft, and alcohol-free beers dominate future trends.

• Brew a Better Cambodia: HEINEKEN trains Cambodian farmers for sustainable rice production.

• Clean Water Commitment: Carlsberg Vietnam provides clean water to central communities.

My work has focused on studying and writing about businesses that aim to “do good,” in all its varied definitions, for about 20 years now. A significant part of this has involved researching and teaching about the B Corp movement. I’ve authored two in-depth Harvard Business School case studies on B Lab, written a book titled Better Business: How the B Corp Movement is Remaking Capitalism, and more recently, I’ve become a proud member of a B Corp: Cambridge Judge Business School Executive Education.

When Dr. Bronner’s announced it would not be renewing its B Corp certification, many people, including members of the media, asked me what this means for the broader B Corp movement, so I thought I would write down some thoughts.

First, regarding Dr. Bronner’s decision specifically, I have tremendous respect for the company, they are a true pioneer in responsible business, and I support their calling attention to the need to uphold rigorous and stringent standards and avoid greenwashing.

But as I discuss a bit more below, my assessment of the impact of the B Corp movement more generally focuses on the broader context of building regenerative and equitable economic systems, and in this I see tremendous value in the work of B Lab and B Corps.

What is the theory of change? It may sound counterintuitive, but for me, the B Corp movement has never been solely about the number of B Corps. Instead, it is a broader social movement focused on transforming our economy to prioritize the principles of regeneration and equity.

While I am inspired by the growth in number of B Corps—from fewer than 200 when I began studying the movement to almost 10,000 today—voluntary action by companies undergoing a certification, even thousands of companies, will not be enough to solve the world’s biggest challenges.

But the number of B Corps is not what this movement is about. In Better Business, I discuss how Sistema B, the Latin American organization that certifies B Corp in that region, was essential to recognizing that for systemic change a broader mission is needed to including legal reforms, influencing investment standards, engaging politicians, building coalitions within communities at both local and national levels and more. These broader ideals now permeate the entire B Corp movement.

One manifestation of this systemic focus has been the creation of a new corporate structure – the benefit corporation – by which a company legally commits to delivering societal benefit alongside the profit-first interests that define traditional companies. B Lab created this idea and mobilized grassroots action to pass these laws around the world. First passed by Maryland in 2010 in the last 15 years, over 40 US states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and other countries including Italy, Colombia, Ecuador, France, Peru, Rwanda, Uruguay, and the Canadian province of British Columbia have adopted benefit corporation structures. It is estimated that there are now over 15,000 benefit corporations around the world. This model provides governance structures for corporate decision makers and directors to consider purpose and responsibilities beyond just delivering value to shareholders.

While benefit corporations are an important element of systemic change, here too, we need more than just a voluntary opt-in model. Importantly, several countries are looking at broader reform to corporate laws including in the UK with the Better Business Act, Canada’s 21^st Century Business Act and also elements of the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Disclosure (CSDDD) in the EU.

Another important aspect of Sistema B’s original vision that I have personally appreciated is recognizing the importance of education and including academic institutions in the model of change. Sistema B founded Academia B and there is also now a vibrant group of B Academics around the world. Through this work, thousands of next generation leaders are learning about these new models for responsible business and in some cases students are able to participate in B Corp certifications themselves.

This is how change in society happens. There is no silver bullet or magic wand, innovations occur on the periphery and then through hard work on multiple different fronts, they work their way to becoming the dominant model.

Defining what it means to be a sustainable and equitable business. To me, one of the bigger impacts of the B Corp movement lies in creating models and processes that demonstrate the kinds of environmental and societal impact that is possible and in many cases necessary.

Before B Lab's founding, there was a lack of detailed tools for companies to assess and demonstrate their impact on society and the environment. The original B Impact Assessment (BIA) was on a spreadsheet created by B Lab co-founder Bart Houlahan, and over the years through at least 6 major iterations, it has been developed into a sophisticated framework for assessing impact used by hundreds of thousands of companies and investors around the world.

While transparency alone is not enough to drive systemic change, measuring corporate impacts on society and the environment is essential. Without robust measurement tools, clear standards, and a mechanism for holding companies to those standards, progress would be impossible.

Importantly, here too societal change is a long process, and we need governments to effectively regulate and guide corporate behavior. For instance, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) in the European Union which stands on the shoulders of the BIA and decades of other work, aims to provide a mandatory framework for accountability on a much larger scale.

There are questions recently about if some of the CSRD will be scaled back, and that will be regrettable, but the majority of the directive appears to be still staying in place and will provide a foundation for holding companies accountable for their social and environmental impacts.

Maintaining those standards at the core. Almost a decade ago, B Lab co-founder Jay Coen Gilbert visited a class I was teaching at Cornell. At the time, the movement was grappling with a significant challenge – with the advent of the benefit corporation law, existing B Corps would be required to become benefit corps if that option was available in their jurisdiction. At the time, many existing B Corps, including high-profile names like Warby Parker and Etsy said they were unable to convert to a benefit corp because their investors and boards were concerned about the uncertainty of such a new model.

My students worried that losing such well-known brands would be a setback for the movement and argued that B Lab should be flexible to retain them as B Corps and possibly introduce a tiered certification system like a "platinum/silver/bronze" model used by LEED in certifying buildings, to make it easier for these companies to remain affiliated with the movement.

However, Jay’s response was emphatic. While he understood the sentiment, he stressed that maintaining rigorous standards was non-negotiable. The integrity of the movement depended on not diluting its criteria for the sake of retaining big names.

Jay’s strong pushback on the students has stuck with me since then and I have kept this in mind when I have seen some of the challenges of growth in the B Corp movement both in number of companies and also the scale of those that are being certified. Recently for instance, there has been a lot of attention focused on the multinationals who are part of the movement and if these companies can genuinely meet stringent criteria.

It is through this lens that I see the updated set of standards – version 7 of the BIA – which will be rolled-out soon. B Lab has importantly shifted assessment from a focus on clearing a threshold of total points across different areas (so low performance in one area could be offset by strong performance in another – a common source of criticism) to mandating companies meet thresholds across 10 different areas.

To me, this represents another instance of how B Lab has continually evolved and worked to push the boundaries on impact. It has never been a perfect system, but I think B Lab deserves a lot of credit for pushing the boundaries on assessing impact, and when holes or problems are identified, working hard to address concerns and make the system better. This may not be as fast or comprehensive as some may want, but again, through this kind of effort is how change happens in society.

Incidentally, returning to Warby Parker, years later, after the benefit corporation model had become well-tested among investors Warby Parker ultimately rejoined the B Corp community before going public.

Working collectively for impact. Through my engagement with the movement, another powerful aspect is the meaningful connections that not only emerge between B Corps in common industries, and in localities and around the globe, but also how there are durable partnerships with many other organizations such as Conscious Capitalism and others. Change requires collective action and mobilization of many who are committed to societal impact is one of the strongest aspects of the movement, which the successes above in the legal, educational and entrepreneurial realms all attest to.

Ultimately, I believe the B Corp movement remains a vital force for change. Continuing to uphold – and push the boundaries on – rigorous standards, foster open dialogue, and focus on the broader goal of systemic transformation are all essential elements if we are to build a more equitable and sustainable economy.

Read more: Business Education And Sustainability: Insights From Cambridge

Essential Reads:

Sustainability Excellence

Indian technology company Wipro hosted the 14th Wipro Earthian Awards 2024 at Azim Premji University, recognizing schools and colleges for excellence in sustainability education. Over 1,500 submissions showcased innovative approaches to biodiversity, waste, and water conservation. The event also highlighted the ‘Ideas to Impact’ challenge, encouraging eco-innovation in colleges.

Read more: Wipro Earthian Awards 2024 Felicitate Excellence in Sustainability Education

Sustainable Business Education

The FT Responsible Business Education Awards honor business schools that integrate sustainability and social justice into their curricula. Recognizing innovative teaching, impactful research, and student-driven solutions, the awards highlight the growing demand for responsible leadership in business education.

Read more: Responsible Business Education Awards

Greening Education

The 6th International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE), hosted by Mobius Foundation, emphasized greening curriculums for a sustainable future. Over 500 global experts discussed environmental education, circular economy, and climate action. The event aligned with Mission LiFE, reinforcing sustainability in education and policy for a greener world.

Read more: Mobius Foundation’s 6th ICSE concludes with a Strong Message on ‘Greening’ Curriculums

Circular Economy Education

The ECO-FUTURE project, an Erasmus+ partnership between Finland, Italy, and North Macedonia, developed educational tools to teach circular economy concepts to 6-12 year-olds. Using interactive methods like tinkering and non-formal education, it equips teachers to foster sustainability awareness and active citizenship among young students.

Read more: Fostering circular economy education among the younger generations

NICER Circular Economy

The NICER programme, the UK’s largest circular economy research initiative, concludes with a showcase event in Westminster. Featuring expert panels, keynote speeches, and sector reports, the event highlights four years of research and innovation, driving circular business models in tech, textiles, and sustainability.

Read more: Circular economy showcase to celebrate achievements of NICER programme

Sustainable Agriculture Education

Environmental researcher Ademola Adegoroye highlights the need to integrate real-world agricultural and environmental challenges into education. His approach blends theory with hands-on learning, empowering youths and farmers with climate-smart techniques, precision agriculture, and circular economy practices to enhance food security and sustainability in Nigeria.

Read more: Integration of real-world agric, environmental challenges into curriculum essential for preparing youths for future

Research Corner:

A sustainable school feeding program requires more than just food distribution—it demands a resilient supply chain. This study, published in Production and Operations Management, presents a framework that identifies key internal and external factors shaping school feeding program supply chains. It emphasizes the need for localized resources, community participation, and long-term sustainability, aligning with the evolving approaches of the World Bank and the World Food Programme. By integrating supply chain management theory with real-world practices, the study offers insights into optimizing program delivery for lasting impact in development aid.

Read more: A School Feeding Supply Chain Framework: Critical Factors for Sustainable Program Design

Quick Takeaways:

• Sustainability Awards: Wipro Earthian honored excellence in eco-education.

• Responsible Business: FT Awards recognize sustainability in business education.

• Greener Curriculums: International Conference on Sustainability Education promotes sustainability in global education.

• Youth & Circular Economy: ECO-FUTURE project teaches kids about sustainability.

• Innovation Showcase: NICER programme highlights circular business models.

• Smart Farming: Climate-focused education enhances food security.