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Curated experts in sustainability fields who can thoroughly elaborate their view based on their accumulated knowledge and experience

Organization

Christopher Marquis

Professor
University of Cambridge

About

Christopher Marquis is the Sinyi Professor of Chinese Management at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School and the author of the award-winning books Better Business: How the B Corp Movement is Remaking Capitalism and Mao and Markets: The Communist Roots of Chinese Enterprise.

Chris has written over 20 peer-reviewed academic articles and published over 50 Harvard Business cases. He received a PhD in Sociology and Business Administration from the University of Michigan and served as Vice President and Technology Manager at JP Morgan Chase before returning to academia.
Passionate about how academic research can help people around the world address our most significant challenges, he examines how some of the biggest crises of our day —climate change, inequality, and racism — are intimately connected with how our current form of capitalism has prioritized accumulating and concentrating wealth for the few affects the concerns and needs of everyone and everything else. His research and writing focus on the need to rebalance the interactions between corporations, governments, and civil society to deliver socially and environmentally beneficial outcomes to all. 

January 23, 2025

Clearer Choices, Cleaner World


Transparency is one factor reshaping sustainability, driving innovation across industries to meet rising demands for ethical practices. In this edition, we spotlight how some organizations are advancing openness and responsibility in their environmental and social impact. Our featured article examines Grove Collaborative's "Beyond Plastic™" initiative, setting a new benchmark for consumer goods transparency by highlighting product plastic content. This strategy underscores the growing demand for informed, environmentally conscious decision-making.

In the Essential Reads, diverse stories showcase sustainability progress—from Ghana’s maritime ambitions to work on GHG emissions in Japan and Calibre Mining's leadership in ethical gold practices, there are many organizations revealing a global shift toward sustainable trade and agriculture. Additionally, innovative approaches like AI-driven supply chain traceability and 3D-printed pharmaceutical solutions demonstrate how technology fuels transparency and accountability.

Our Research Corner explores the phenomenon of greenwashing. Published in Organization Science, this study unravels how external pressures influence corporate disclosure practices, offering actionable insights to mitigate deceptive environmental claims.

Let’s delve into these stories, celebrating transparency as a cornerstone of sustainable transformation. Read on to uncover actionable ideas for your journey toward sustainability.

Featured Article:

Grove’s Step Beyond Plastic

In my recent Forbes article, I delve into how Grove Collaborative, a certified B Corporation and the world’s first plastic-neutral retailer, is redefining sustainability in the consumer goods industry. Grove’s innovative “Beyond Plastic™” badging system is designed to empower consumers to make informed choices by transparently highlighting the plastic impact of their products. With badges like “100% Plastic Free,” “95%+ Plastic Free,” and “No Single Use Plastic,” Grove is addressing growing consumer demand for sustainability and tackling the alarming global plastic crisis.

Grove’s efforts are part of a broader mission to shift the industry away from reliance on single-use plastics through product innovation and radical transparency. In my interview with CEO Jeff Yurcisin, he emphasized Grove’s commitment to progress over perfection and shared how the company evaluates brands against stringent standards, from cruelty-free practices to sustainable packaging. This new initiative aims to transform shopping into an educational experience, aligning consumer values with environmental action.

Read more: Consumers Are Demanding Sustainability Information — Grove Delivers With New Badging System

Essential Reads:

Reducing GHG Emissions in Japan

Environmental experts at a Makati forum highlighted Japan's leadership in greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction, including corporate-level reporting mandates and cross-border low-carbon technology projects. The project is also open to neighboring countries and the report discussions how the Philippines is taking efforts in energy efficiency and eco-friendly transport, emphasizing significant mitigation costs in energy and transport sectors.

Read more: Less Greenhouse Gas Emissions Sought

Transforming Ghana's Maritime Industry

Ghana's maritime sector is pivotal to its economy, handling 85% of trade volume. Transitioning to a 24-hour economy could boost trade, create jobs, and position Ghana as a West African hub. Inspired by global examples like Singapore, success hinges on modern infrastructure, policy reforms, and skilled workforce development.

Read more: Transforming the Maritime Industry

Principled Gold Mining

Calibre Mining achieved four consecutive years of compliance with the World Gold Council's Responsible Gold Mining Principles (RGMP), showcasing excellence in sustainability, ethical practices, and transparency. The company also advanced toward the Conflict-Free Gold Standard, reinforced by independent verifications, and gained recognition for its ESG performance, elevating industry standards for responsible mining.

Read more: Calibre Mining Demonstrates Gold Standard for Principled Mining

Capsule Innovation and Sustainability

Advancements in cellulose-based capsules and 3D printing are revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry in 2025, addressing sustainability, personalized therapies, and efficient drug delivery. These technologies enhance API stability, cater to clean-label demands, and enable precise, patient-centric solutions, marking a transformative shift in healthcare.

Read more: Revolutionising Delivery and Advancing Sustainability: Capsule Innovation and 3D Printing Transform Pharma for a Future of Precision and Ethical Solutions

Sustainable Kratom Practices

Leading kratom (a tropical evergreen tree) brands are adopting sustainable farming, eco-friendly packaging, and ethical sourcing practices to protect rainforests, support local communities, and ensure fair trade. These initiatives include organic farming, reduced carbon emissions, and worker safety measures. Consumers can contribute by choosing reputable, certified brands and supporting community-driven initiatives.

Read more: How Kratom Brands Are Embracing Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing

AI-Driven Responsible Sourcing

United Legwear & Apparel adopts AI-powered traceability to enhance supply chain transparency, compliance, and sustainability. Partnering with TradeBeyond, the company utilizes real-time document verification and custody tracking to meet regulations like the UFLPA and ESG laws, ensuring ethical sourcing and reducing compliance risks.

Read more: United Legwear & Apparel Gets AI Boost for Responsible Sourcing

Research Corner:

The topic of sustainability transparency has also been discussed by me and my co-authors in Organization Science in 2016, investigates the phenomenon of greenwashing by analyzing how firms selectively disclose benign environmental impacts to appear transparent while concealing harmful practices. Using a robust panel dataset of 4,750 public companies across 45 countries, the research reveals that organizations operating in environments with higher scrutiny, stronger institutional norms, and greater civil society engagement are less likely to engage in such deceptive practices. This work offers significant contributions to institutional theory, strategic management, and transparency, providing actionable insights for fostering more honest corporate environmental disclosures.

Read more: Scrutiny, Norms, and Selective Disclosure: A Global Study of Greenwashing

Quick Takeaways:

  • GHG Efforts: Japan and the Philippines showcase transparent, scalable emission-reduction strategies.

  • Maritime Shift: Ghana aims for sustainable trade growth with 24-hour port operations and policy reforms.

  • Gold Mining Transparency: Calibre Mining sets a standard with responsible gold practices and verified ESG performance.

  • Pharma Sustainability: Eco-friendly capsules and 3D printing enable greener, precise healthcare solutions.

  • Kratom Ethics: Transparent sourcing practices support sustainability and local communities.

  • AI for Supply Chains: AI enhances transparency and compliance in ethical sourcing initiatives.


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January 16, 2025

A Sea of Solutions: Tackling Marine Challenges with Innovation


This week, we explore the potential of regenerative solutions for our oceans, from combating plastic pollution to enhancing marine biodiversity. Our Featured Articledives into the innovative work of Preserve, a Certified B Corporation transforming ocean plastics into everyday essentials. With initiatives like the Preserve Ocean Plastic Initiative (POPi), they exemplify how businesses can create meaningful environmental impact.

Our Essential Reads highlight advances shaping a sustainable future for our oceans, including National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s resilience-building initiatives, wave energy breakthroughs, and integrated aquaculture practices. Additionally, 2024’s top ocean news reveals both challenges—like record heat—and progress in ocean mapping and inclusive strategies.

In the Research Corner, we spotlight a study on robust action frameworks, revealing how collaborative innovation and diverse networks can scale solutions for ocean conservation. The findings emphasize the importance of sustained stakeholder engagement in tackling grand challenges.

Let’s delve into these stories and uncover how regenerative efforts are transforming our oceans for generations to come!

Featured Article:

Turning Plastic Waste into Purpose

In a world grappling with an ocean plastic crisis, Preserve is turning the tide with innovation. My Forbes article, "How A Toothbrush Could Help Solve Our Ocean Plastic Crisis", spotlights how Eric Hudson, founded Preserve in 1996 to transform recycled materials into everyday essentials, a line-up that today including toothbrushes, razors and a variety of kitchen and food storage products. Hudson’s pioneering efforts birthed the Preserve Ocean Plastic Initiative (POPi), which repurposes plastics collected from coastlines into sustainable products, donating 25% of proceeds to organizations combatting plastic pollution.

This journey underscores the potential for regenerative solutions to tackle one of today’s most pressing global challenges. Importantly, as Hudson notes, these efforts are not just about products but about creating systems that are lighter on Earth.


Read more: How A Toothbrush Could Help Solve Our Ocean Plastic Crisis

Essential Reads:

Ocean Resilience Initiative

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s Climate, Ecosystems, and Fisheries Initiative (CEFI) addresses rapidly changing oceans impacting U.S. marine and Great Lakes ecosystems. Leveraging advanced climate modeling, CEFI offers forecasts, risk assessments, and resilience strategies to support fisheries and coastal communities nationwide. Funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, CEFI enables climate-informed decision-making for sustainable future planning.

Read more: Building Resource and Community Resilience to Rapidly Changing Oceans

2024’s Top Ocean News Highlights

Marine scientists and policy experts share the top ocean stories from 2024, including advances in mapping, legal strategies, and financial innovations for ocean protection. Major setbacks include record heat and global coral bleaching. Indigenous leadership and inclusive ocean planning emerge as critical themes for sustainable progress.

Read more: 2024’s Top Ocean News Stories (Commentary)

Harnessing Ocean Waves for Renewable Energy

The PacWave facility in Oregon pioneers converting ocean wave energy into clean power. With a $112.5 million U.S. Department of Energy investment, PacWave tests wave energy converters to generate steady, renewable electricity. Designed with community and environmental input, this innovation complements wind and solar for a sustainable energy future.

Read more: How to Turn Ocean Waves Into Renewable Energy

Integrated Aquaculture Success

The Moretti family of Bangs Island Mussels integrates mussels, oysters, and kelp farming in Maine’s Casco Bay. They utilize sustainable practices like integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) to combat ocean acidification and enhance water quality. Partnering with researchers, they demonstrate how co-raising shellfish and seaweed benefits the environment and supports growing consumer demand nationwide.

[Read more: Maine’s triple low trophic aquaculture dynasty]

Purple Sea Urchin Solution

Purple sea urchins devastate Oregon’s kelp forests, critical carbon sinks and marine habitats. OoNee Sea Urchin Ranch combats this by harvesting and farming urchins for marketable uni, benefiting ecosystems and the seafood industry. Their innovative approach, including feeding trials and sustainable practices, supports kelp restoration while creating demand for this ocean delicacy.

Read more: How Do You Stop an Overpopulated Species? Try Eating It

Celebrating Atlantic Innovation

The 2024 Atlantic Project Awards honored a variety of projects for their contributions to marine renewable energy, coastal resilience, and international cooperation. These initiatives exemplify the Atlantic Action Plan 2.0’s priorities of environmental stewardship, stakeholder engagement, and decarbonization, paving the way for sustainable blue economy practices.

Read more: Four CINEA EU Funded Projects Receive the 2024 Atlantic Project Award

Indonesia-Tanzania Exchange Advances Blue Food Sustainability

WWF facilitated an exchange between Indonesia and Tanzania to promote sustainable "blue foods" and enhance marine ecosystem health. The collaboration highlighted seaweed farming, women-led microfinancing, and community-based marine management to support livelihoods, food security, and biodiversity conservation, fostering innovative, shared solutions across coastal communities.

Read more: An Exchange Between Indonesia and Tanzania Supports Food Security and Ocean Health

Research Corner:

A study in the Journal of Management Studies explores how robust action—a framework encouraging diverse stakeholders to collaborate on innovative solutions—can address grand challenges like ocean conservation. By examining an award-winning crowdsourcing initiative, the authors demonstrate how robust action principles foster diverse networks and sustainable ideas. However, the research highlights the risks of losing momentum as actors and roles shift over time, emphasizing the importance of connecting ideas and stakeholders throughout the crowdsourcing phases. This work advances understanding of how robust action can scale impact over time.

Read more: Saving our oceans: Scaling the impact of robust action through crowdsourcing

Quick Takeaways:

  • Resilient ecosystems: Advanced modeling restores marine life and supports sustainable fisheries.

  • 2024 highlights: Advances in mapping, legal strategies, and financial tools drive ocean regeneration.

  • Renewable energy: Wave energy powers sustainable solutions.

  • Sustainable aquaculture: Co-farming boosts ecosystems and seafood production.

  • Kelp revival: Tackling urchin overpopulation restores biodiversity.

  • Collaborative innovation: Global projects drive ocean regeneration.

  • Blue food solutions: Seaweed farming enhances biodiversity and security.


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January 9, 2025

From Impact to Regeneration: Redefining Finance for a Sustainable Future


This week, we delve into innovations in finance that aim to transcend the goals of traditional impact investing. Our featured article highlights RSF Social Finance’s work in redefining the purpose of capital—placing the creation of equitable, restorative systems at its core. By tackling systemic issues like racial inequity and climate change, new models of regenerative finance illustrates how finance can move beyond returns to foster long-term societal healing.

Our Essential Reads highlight pivotal sustainability initiatives and challenges, from climate finance shortcomings at COP29 to green strategies in Africa. Key stories include climate risks to UK pensions, investments in Egypt's green economy, and England’s private funding mechanisms for nature recovery. Each story show some emerging solutions to the pressing issues of our time.

In our Research Corner, we spotlight a critical review from the Journal of Management Studies. The article examines gaps in impact investing research, emphasizing the need for systems-level analysis to assess true societal outcomes, bridging theory with transformative practice.

Featured Article:

From Impact Investing to Regenerative Finance

In my recent Forbes article, I explored how RSF Social Finance is pushing the boundaries of traditional impact investing and pioneering regenerative finance models. While impact investing seeks a dual mandate of financial return and societal benefit, regenerative finance places the creation of equitable, restorative systems at its core. This shift redefines the purpose of capital, aligning it with long-term systemic solutions rather than short-term gains.

RSF Social Finance exemplifies this approach through initiatives like the Racial Justice Collaborative, which supports Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) entrepreneurs and integrates racial equity into funding decisions. CEO Jasper van Brakel explains how regenerative finance transforms money into a tool for circulation and regeneration, not accumulation. By addressing systemic issues such as climate change, inequality, and structural racism, RSF demonstrates the potential of finance as a catalyst for societal healing.

This article highlights how mission-first structures and innovative capital strategies are unlocking new possibilities for systemic change.

Read more: RSF Is Leading The Way In Moving From Impact Investing To Regenerative Finance

Essential Reads:

Finance Is Falling Short

The new climate finance goal agreed at 2024 COP29 fails developing countries. Despite rising climate impacts, the deal provides insufficient, non-binding commitments that favor loans over grants. The $300bn target by 2035 is by most observers accounts inadequate for true climate action and adaptation needs.

Read more: The new climate finance goal agreed at COP29 is a betrayal of developing countries

Climate Risks to UK Pensions

UK pension funds may lose over 20% in returns by 2040 due to climate-related physical and transition risks. Ortec Finance’s analysis highlights disruptions from low-carbon policies and stranded fossil fuel assets, emphasizing urgent adaptation to balance resilience and minimize losses.

Read more: Climate change could cost UK pension funds 20% in returns, research finds

IFC Boosts Egypt's Green Economy

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) committed $605 million to Egypt, supporting green finance, sustainable tourism, and MSMEs. Key initiatives include a $300 million sustainability bond, $155 million for green tourism, and $150 million for MSME financing. These investments advance Egypt's economic growth and green transition.

Read more: IFC Invests $605m to Advance Egypt’s Green Transition, Support SMEs

Private Investment for Nature Recovery

With only 7% of England's land protected, the government aims to achieve 30% by 2030. The revived Environmental Audit Committee inquiry explores leveraging private investments and financial mechanisms to drive nature recovery, focusing on natural capital's role in achieving environmental and economic goals.

Read more: How can we spur private investment to meet 30x30 nature recovery obligations?

African Leaders Unlock Climate Finance

African policymakers are advancing climate finance frameworks post-COP29, focusing on green energy zones and private investment. Initiatives like the Green Investment Dialogue aim to reduce investment risks and attract funding for renewable energy and low-carbon infrastructure, ensuring Africa leads a just and inclusive green transition.

Read more: African policymakers unite to unlock climate finance post COP

CAF Funds SIDS Climate Projects

The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) approved a US$15 million loan facility to support small island developing states (SIDS) in addressing climate challenges. The funds will finance pre-investment projects, enhance infrastructure, and promote institutional strengthening, fostering sustainable development in the Caribbean region.

Read more: CAF approves US$15m loans for climate-change projects in small-island states

Green Housing Boost

IFC supports Vinte in Mexico with a $301M package to expand affordable, energy-efficient housing. The Vinte Green PCG Project aims to meet housing needs while aligning with climate goals through green building standards and EDGE certification. This initiative enhances sustainability, competitiveness, and access to quality housing.

Read more: IFC Supports Vinte with US$301 Million Financing Package for Green Housing Project in Mexico

Research Corner:

A recent study published in the Journal of Management Studies critically examines the field of impact investing (II), which strives to combine financial returns with measurable societal benefits. Analyzing 104 articles, the review identifies fragmented research across disciplines and highlights a critical gap: the actual societal impact of II remains underexplored. The authors propose integrating systems theory and innovative methodologies, such as life cycle analysis and longitudinal studies, to address this gap and build a holistic understanding of II’s effectiveness.

Read more: Missing the Impact in Impact Investing Research – A Systematic Review and Critical Reflection of the Literature

The regenerative business practices and sustainability innovations highlighted in this week's Regenerative Insights directly tackle the critical issues of corporate responsibility explored in my recent book explored in my recent book, The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Sustainable Finance Requires Collaboration: Partnerships between policymakers and industry are necessary to drive sustainable change.

  • Pension Fund Adaptation: Mitigate climate risks to protect long-term pension returns.

  • Green Economic Transition: Use green bonds and tourism to drive national economic shifts.

  • Private Nature Recovery: Attract private investments for biodiversity goals.

  • Inclusive Green Energy: Reduce investment risks to boost renewable energy in developing regions.

  • Climate Support for Small Islands: Enhance infrastructure and pre-investment for small islands to combat climate impacts.

  • Public Grants Advocacy: Push for public grants over loans to tackle climate crises.

  • Affordable Green Housing: Expand green housing to meet sustainability and affordability goals.


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January 2, 2025

Sowing Seeds of Change: How Regenerative Practices are Shaping Tomorrow


This week’s Regenerative Insights centers on the transformative power of regenerative farming, a practice that restores ecosystems, enhances soil health, and fosters community resilience. Our featured article spotlights Lundberg Family Farms, a trailblazer in regenerative organic farming, blending decades of tradition with innovative practices to lead the charge toward sustainable agriculture.

In Essential Reads, we delve into inspiring stories of regenerative practices across the globe. From ancient wisdom revitalizing vineyards to biodynamic farming restoring ecological balance, these cases showcase the profound impact of regenerative methods on food systems and communities alike.

In Research Corner, we examine a study that highlights how NGOs are championing conservation agriculture in low-income countries. By employing innovative approaches, this work offers valuable insights for scaling sustainable practices globally.

Let’s delve into these compelling narratives and explore how regenerative farming is shaping a more resilient and equitable agricultural future.

Featured Article:

A Generational Commitment to Regenerative Organic Farming

My recent Forbes article explores Lundberg Family Farms' multigenerational commitment to regenerative organic farming, blending legacy, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Lundberg Family Farms, a leading rice producer, has embodied the ethos of leaving the land better than they found it since 1937. Their ambitious goal of achieving 100% Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC) by 2027 underscores their role as trailblazers in sustainable agriculture.

The article shows their journey from embracing organic farming in the 1960s to earning ROC for 8,500 acres of rice fields and over 70 certified products. Beyond soil health, ROC's comprehensive framework demands animal welfare and social equity, making it a gold standard for agricultural sustainability. Bryce and Brita Lundberg share innovative practices like flooding fields to mimic wetlands for wildlife and using renewable energy at their granary. Their vision aims to redefine food production and consumption with regenerative principles.

Read more: A Generational Commitment to Regenerative Organic Farming At Lundberg Family Farms

Essential Reads:

Ancient Wisdom in Vineyards

Regenerative viticulture rejuvenates wine production by integrating grazing animals and natural farming techniques. This practice enhances soil health, reduces chemical reliance, and boosts biodiversity, yielding wines of distinct quality and character. Studies showcase the ecological and economic potential of these methods, offering a sustainable path forward for the wine industry.

Read more: Moo-ving Away from Chemicals – Winemakers Show How Ancient Wisdom Can Improve Wine

Rediscovering Biodynamics

Biodynamic farming unites tradition and innovation, fostering harmony between humans, earth, and cosmos. Once disrupted by industrial agriculture, Tamil and African farmers have rediscovered ecological balance through biodynamics. Advocates like Anthoni Selvi and Feya Marince emphasize its transformative power. 

Read more: Rediscover what life truly is – Sustainable growing methods such as biodynamics are successful around the world

Climate-Smart Agriculture

Michigan State University (MSU) researcher Thomas Reardon explores how agricultural value chains (AVCs) can empower small- and medium-sized farmers to adopt climate-smart practices. Highlighting business-driven incentives and applied research, the study showcases practical solutions to enhance sustainability and resilience in farming. Policy recommendations emphasize regulation, funding, and innovation for climate accountability across AVCs.

Read more: MSU researcher publishes article in Science on how agricultural value chains can promote climate-smart agriculture

Sustainable Coffee Pioneer

Anitha Nanda, a 61-year-old coffee farmer from Coorg (a city in India), blends sustainability with tradition, cultivating robusta and arabica on her 150-acre estate. Empowering 400 women through eco-friendly practices, she advocates biodiversity and community support. Her leadership in sustainable farming has earned her recognition and transformed coffee farming into a thriving, inclusive venture.

Read more: 61-Year-Old Karnataka Woman Farmer Empowers 400 Women with a Vision for Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Coffee Farming

Innovative Shallot Farming

Farmers in Humbang Hasundutan, North Sumatra (a province of Indonesia), successfully cultivated shallots using True Shallot Seed, reducing costs and increasing yields. Supported by modern agricultural techniques, they achieved sustainable farming practices, boosting incomes and creating job opportunities. This transformative approach strengthens local food security and drives economic growth in the region.

Read more: Farmers in Humbang Hasundutan Successfully Planted Shallots From Seeds

Regenerative Farming Hub

Great Chalfield Manor, in partnership with the National Trust (UK) and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, is set to become a regenerative farming hub. Over 200 acres will host climate-resilient food production, species-rich habitats, and integrated woodlands. The initiative aims to educate farmers on sustainable practices while fostering nature’s recovery.

Read more: Country Manor to Become Regenerative Farming Hub

Regenerative Farming on Soil Health

Farmers like Greg Judy and Will Fraser are transforming agriculture with regenerative practices, focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and livestock rotation to combat climate change. At the Fields Good conference, experts emphasize how these methods boost resilience and sustainability. “It’s not the cow, it’s the how,” highlights this eco-friendly shift.

Read more: The Farmers Changing How They Work to Protect the Planet

Research Corner:

A study by Bruno Dyck and Bruno S. Silvestre, published in Organization Studies, explores a transformative NGO-led approach to promote sustainable farming practices in Nicaragua. The research focuses on conservation agriculture (CA), a set of agronomic methods proven to double productivity but underutilized by small-scale farmers. By employing unconventional, decentralized strategies, the study highlights how NGOs can more effectively address uncertainties and drive the adoption of sustainable innovations in low-income countries. This work challenges traditional assumptions in innovation management and offers actionable insights for NGOs aiming to scale sustainable solutions globally.

Read more: A Novel NGO Approach to Facilitate the Adoption of Sustainable Innovations in Low-Income Countries

The regenerative business practices and sustainability innovations highlighted in this week's Regenerative Insights directly tackle the critical issues of corporate responsibility explored in my recent book explored in my recent book, The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Grazing animals in vineyards: Boost soil health and biodiversity for sustainable, high-quality wine.

  • Biodynamic farming: Restore harmony between humans and nature with ancient, eco-friendly practices.

  • Climate-smart farming: Support small farmers with sustainable value chains and resilience-focused methods.

  • Eco-friendly coffee: Blend tradition with sustainability to empower communities and preserve biodiversity.

  • Innovative shallots: Reduce costs and improve yields with advanced seeds and sustainable techniques.

  • Farming hubs: Promote regenerative practices and nature recovery through education and collaboration.

  • Soil-focused farming: Use rotational grazing and biodiversity to enhance sustainability and combat climate change.


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December 19, 2024

Rooting for Change: How Forestry Powers Sustainability and Growth


This week, we turn our focus to forestry, exploring its pivotal role in ecological restoration, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth. Forests are more than natural resources—they are critical ecosystems that support biodiversity, sequester carbon, and sustain livelihoods worldwide. Our Featured Article highlights Guayakí Yerba Mate's innovative "Market-Driven Regeneration™" model, showcasing how businesses can implement regenerative practices to restore ecosystems and empower communities.

In our Essential Reads, we delve into forestry initiatives that redefine sustainability. From large-scale tree planting projects in Idaho to Pro Silva forestry management in Belgium, these stories demonstrate how diverse stakeholders are leveraging forestry to balance ecological health with economic development. Urban forestry programs, youth-led reforestation efforts, and innovative bioenergy solutions further emphasize the multifaceted impact of forests in addressing global challenges like urban heat, clean energy access, and biodiversity loss.

Our Research Corner presents insights into optimizing forest harvesting under uncertainty. This study combines financial risk models with sustainable forestry practices, offering strategies for balancing profit and ecosystem stability in the face of climate variability.

Forests hold the potential to be both a shield against environmental crises and a springboard for economic opportunity. This week’s stories remind us of the critical role forestry plays in shaping a regenerative future. Dive into these inspiring examples of how people and organizations worldwide are working to ensure forests thrive for generations to come!

Featured Article:

Beyond Sustainability: Guayakí's Regenerative Business Model

In a world where "sustainability" is often an overused term, Guayakí Yerba Matedistinguishes itself with its groundbreaking "Market-Driven Regeneration™" model. Highlighted in my recent Forbes article, this South American beverage company shows how businesses can actively restore ecosystems while empowering communities. Rather than merely maintaining the status quo, Guayakí’s approach seeks to enhance biodiversity and foster environmental restoration, starting at the source: its yerba mate farms in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.

At the heart of Guayakí’s model is a commitment to shade-grown, regenerative organic farming practices. These methods support biodiversity and nourish the soil, aligning with nature’s rhythms. However, the company’s impact extends beyond agriculture. With certifications like "Fair for Life," Guayakí ensures livable wages for all workers in its supply chain, from Indigenous communities to factory employees. Their partnerships prioritize equity and community empowerment, promoting long-term economic sustainability.

This case demonstrates that business success and environmental regeneration can go hand in hand, providing a blueprint for a new era of responsible entrepreneurship.
Read more: Beyond Sustainability: Guayakí's Regenerative Approach to Business

Essential Reads:

Tree Planting Efficiency

PotlatchDeltic, an American diversified forest products company, plants 6 million seedlings across 15,000 acres annually in Idaho, focusing on diversity and resilience. With a challenging 6–8 week planting season, logistics ensure seedlings thrive in warming soils before summer. The effort involves 200+ workers planting 280,000 seedlings daily, fostering sustainability and forest health.

Read more: PotlatchDeltic’s Idaho Tree Planting

Cooperative Progress

The 60th International Tropical Timber Council (ITTC-60) session fostered unity among members, advancing preparations for renegotiating the International Tropical Timber Agreement (ITTA). Key achievements include extending the executive director’s term, forming a structured Preparatory Working Group, and adopting a financing strategy to enhance ITTO’s profile and sustainability.

Read more: Tropical Timber Talks Rubber Stamp More Funding for ITTO

Centennial Sustainability

Ashland Inc., an American chemical company, celebrates 100 years of innovation through a partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation to plant 15,200 trees across ecosystems in Brazil, Mexico, and the U.S. This initiative supports biodiversity, combats climate change, and underscores Ashland’s commitment to sustainable sourcing and environmental stewardship.

Read more: Ashland Celebrates Solvers, Recognizes 100 Years of Innovation by Planting Trees

Urban Forest Resilience

Tempe's Community Tree Stewards Program tackles urban heat islands by empowering residents in vulnerable neighborhoods to expand shade canopies. Through education, outreach, and hands-on training, the program addresses climate justice, enhances biodiversity, and builds a resilient, sustainable future for all.

Read more: Shading Tempe’s Future with Community Tree Programs

Eco-Economy Harmony

In Belgium, University of Namur economics students explored sustainable forestry in Haugimont, learning Pro Silva management (the European federation of foresters who advocate forest management based on natural processes), which balances biodiversity with economic gains. This immersive workshop emphasized how ecological stewardship and economic profitability can coexist, equipping future economists with insights for sustainable development.

Read more: Reconciling Business and Nature: A Forest Immersion with UNamur Students

Sustainable Mountain Tourism

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Malaysia, in partnership with the Forestry Department, is enhancing mountain tourism through sustainable practices, safety guidelines, and professional training for guides. The initiative promotes environmental stewardship, fair wages, and skill certification, ensuring mountains provide economic and ecological benefits while preserving biodiversity.

Read more: Co-creating Sustainable Mountain Management with Guides in Malaysia

Empowering Energy Independence

The University of British Columbia (UBC)'s Alex Fraser Research Forest (at Faculty of Forestry) and FPInnovations (not-for-profit organization in support of the Canadian forest sector) launched a training program to help Indigenous and remote communities transition to wood-based bioenergy. Participants gain hands-on skills in biomass power operations, fostering clean energy, local jobs, and sustainable energy independence.

Read more: New Bioenergy Training Program Targets Remote Indigenous Communities

Youth Reforest Armenia

In Goris, Armenia, Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and partners trained high school students in sustainable forestry practices. Through hands-on workshops, 70 students learned seedling production, energy efficiency, and reforestation techniques, fostering youth engagement in environmental preservation and building a greener future.

Read more: From Theory to Practice: Armenian High School Students Embrace Reforestation Skills

Research Corner:

Optimizing Forest Harvesting for Profit Stability

Lejeune and Kettunen (2017) explore how forest owners can optimize harvesting schedules to balance profit stability and reliability under uncertain conditions, such as tree growth rates and wood product prices. By applying a financial risk-based optimization framework to a forestry problem in Finland, the study highlights strategies like early harvesting and prioritizing slow-growing forests. These methods outperform traditional approaches, offering practical insights for forestry operations. Published in Manufacturing & Service Operations Management, this research bridges stochastic programming and sustainable forestry, showcasing a scenario-based model that addresses uncertainties effectively.

Read more: Managing reliability and stability risks in forest harvesting

The regenerative business practices and sustainability innovations highlighted in this week's Regenerative Insights directly tackle the critical issues of corporate responsibility explored in my recent book explored in my recent book, The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profit and Socializes Cost.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Efficient reforestation: Streamline planting schedules and logistics for higher seedling survival rates.

  • Collaborative action: Strategic groups and funding accelerate sustainability goals.

  • Long-term commitment: Corporate partnerships drive impactful conservation.

  • Community cooling: Engage locals to expand shade canopies against urban heat.

  • Eco-economic balance: Train in forestry management to blend biodiversity with economic benefits.

  • Sustainable tourism: Develop policies to protect nature and support fair economic growth.

  • Clean energy skills: Teach bioenergy practices to foster local energy independence.

  • Youth reforestation: Inspire stewardship with hands-on forestry programs for young leaders.


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