Business Perspectives on Sustainability

Sustainability. The word has become so commonplace that it’s in danger of being stripped of any precise meaning. Organizations and individuals throughout the state – from businesses to municipalities to nonprofits to homeowners – now tout their commitment to sustainability, but how, exactly, should we define sustainability? And what, specifically, does it mean to engage in sustainable business practices?

On March 7, Associated Oregon Industries president Jay Clemens and Oregon Business Association president Ryan Deckert will attempt to distinguish the rhetoric of sustainability from the reality of business opportunities and practices that link profitability to environmental and social progress. They also will discuss whether it’s possible to transform Oregon’s reputation for environmental sustainability into a competitive economic advantage.

Clemens has served as the president and CEO of Associated Oregon Industries since 2006 and has been an executive with various chambers of commerce for the past 30 years. Deckert has served as the president of the Oregon Business Association since 2007. Prior to leading OBA, he represented the district that includes Washington County in the state legislature, where he chaired the Senate Finance and Revenue committee.