Sustainable business industry leaders came together with Appalachian State University students and faculty on September 13 to discuss ways of addressing global environmental and social challenges.
More than 300 individuals attended the Global Good Conference, an event which, for the second year running, combines elements of both the Walker College of Business Global Opportunities and Business for Good conferences. They left inspired to take action to make meaningful contributions to sustainability in their careers and communities.
In his keynote address, Don Addu ’07, former senior manager of strategic partnerships for the groundbreaking carbon removal service provider ClimeWorks, encouraged attendees to recognize opportunities to engage in climate action through business endeavors. Watch a video of Addu’s keynote address.
Addu speaks to the audience during the keynote address at the 2024 Global Good Conference.
“This is our moment," said Addu, "this is our chance to bring forth new prosperity rooted in an economic model that prioritizes people, planet, and profit… and solve the greatest challenge facing our species.”
Addu discussed the various ways businesses are addressing climate change now, the challenges of financing climate technologies, and the anticipated market shifts as climate change begins to impact economic growth.
The effect of climate change on the economy is best recognized through the concept of the “triple bottom line” or "people, planet, and profit," a framework for businesses to consider not only financial profit but also their social and environmental impact. Measuring company performance more holistically can help gauge long-term sustainability and improve company performance.
“Businesses are good at evolving to ensure sustainability,” said Addu. “ Today, they’re becoming increasingly good at evolving to meet global challenges, too, so they continue to be profitable for generations to come.”
Learning continued during hands-on, small-group workshops on the following topics.
- “The Business of Eco-Conscious Apparel” (Bill Johnston, Recover Brands).
- “How to assess and manage the biodiversity risks of a business” (Nicholas Poggioli and Laura England, Appalachian State University).
- “Demystifying Carbon Credits” (Bailey Evans '10, Green Assets and Scott Subler, ClimeCo).
- “Careers that Matter: How to pursue a career in sustainable business” (Andee Burton '12, Caleres Inc, and Sirisha Karra '20, Gartner).
Laura England presents during the biodiversity breakout session.
“A commitment to sustainability and a global mindset are essential aspects of our college’s mission to prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative, and engaged business leaders who positively impact our communities locally and globally,” said Walker College Dean Sandra Vannoy. “We are thrilled to combine our curiosity, creativity, and commitment to the business of building a better world.”
According to conference attendees, the aim was satisfied.
“The Global Good Conference was an amazing opportunity to learn about the importance of sustainability in business,” said Anne Allison, a hospitality and tourism management senior.
Allison was one of seven honored during an awards ceremony immediately following the event.
Related: Walker College honors seven for global engagement and sustainability efforts
The Global Good conference and the international awards ceremony relate to the college’s strategic priority of helping its community develop and maintain a global perspective.
“Encounters with new worldviews and perspectives can bring self-awareness and growth,” said Dr. Martin Meznar, the college’s global and civic engagement associate dean. “The Walker College works to provide experiences that inspire and empower individuals to be passionate about the business of building a better world.”
View photos from the 2024 event. The fall 2025 Global Good Conference is tentatively scheduled for late September or early October.
By Kristen Cheek, October 2024
About Sustainable Business at Appalachian
Appalachian’s Walker College of Business is committed to advancing sustainable business practices that promote responsible management of economic, social and natural resources. The theory and practice of sustainable business recognizes that the economy, environment and society (the triple bottom line) are interconnected and interdependent, and strives to enhance the business model so that it can flourish and thrive to benefit future generations. The college offers a sustainable business minor available to business and nonbusiness majors, a bachelor’s degree in environmental economics and policy, and an MBA concentration in sustainable business. The programs focus on student engagement, research and community involvement. For more information, visit https://business.appstate.edu/sustain.
About Walker College of Business International Programs
The Walker College of Business encourages students to study abroad and provides a variety of short-term international programs designed to develop international business skills and intercultural knowledge. These faculty-led programs have proven to be invaluable for many students. Scholarships are available. Fluency in a second language is not required and students can earn credit toward their degree. For more information on future opportunities, contact Global & Civic Engagement Specialist Meredith Church Pipes, churchmm@appstate.edu, or visit international.business.appstate.edu.
Don Addu gives keynote speech at 2024 Global Conference.
Don Addu gives keynote speech at 2024 Global Conference.