Glossary

An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continuous use of resources, where products and materials are kept in use for as long as possible.

A company’s role as a “good citizen” that contributes positively to the well-being of its local community.

The beliefs and principles that influence a consumer’s purchasing decisions, specifically their preference for ethical and sustainable products.

A growing group of customers who prioritize social and environmental values and are willing to support businesses that align with those principles.

Sourcing and using materials that are less harmful to the environment.

Business actions aimed at reducing environmental harm, such as waste reduction, sustainable sourcing, and energy efficiency.

The effect a business’s operations have on the natural world.

The process of using metrics (e.g., carbon footprint, waste reduction) to measure and report a business's environmental performance.

A measure of a company's success in reducing its ecological footprint

Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and humane treatment of all workers, both within the company and throughout its supply chain.

A network of suppliers committed to fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and responsible sourcing.

The ability of a business to be profitable and remain viable over the long term.

Creative and non-traditional business ideas that integrate the three pillars of sustainability (People, Planet, Profit) from the outset.

The process of improving a company's shipping and transport methods to reduce fuel consumption and a business's environmental footprint.

Opportunities in the market where consumer needs are not being met by existing, traditional business models.

A formal declaration of a company’s purpose that goes beyond profit to include specific social and environmental objectives.

Specific metrics used to track and evaluate a business's progress toward its sustainability goals.

Designing products to be durable and long-lasting, which reduces the need for frequent replacements and minimizes waste.

Practices focused on reducing the consumption of natural resources, such as using renewable energy, minimizing waste, and conserving water.

The principle of fairness and justice in a business's treatment of all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the community.

A business's effect on society, including fair labor practices, community engagement, and solving social problems.

The process of using data (e.g., employee satisfaction scores, number of fair-wage jobs) to measure a company's positive social contributions.

A measure of a company's success in terms of its social impact on employees, communities, and other stakeholders.

Third-party verifications (like Fair Trade, ISO 14001, and Rainforest Alliance) that demonstrate a supplier's adherence to specific social or environmental standards.

The process of embedding sustainable practices into all core functions of a business, from initial product development to final marketing.

A strategic framework or business strategy that prioritizes creating value for the planet and its people, not just for financial gain. It is designed to ensure a company's long-term success by adapting to future challenges and changes.

The combination of traditional business goals with a concern for the environment and society.

An example of a large corporation adopting environmentally and socially responsible practices within a major industry.

Innovative approaches to persistent global issues that integrate environmental and social responsibility.

A system where a business takes back old or used products from customers for recycling, repair, or reuse.

Using technological advancements to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance sustainable practices.

An accounting framework that expands the traditional focus on financial profit to include two additional dimensions: people (social performance) and planet (environmental performance).

The process of transforming discarded materials into new products of higher value or quality.

Attracting a customer base that supports the business not just for its products, but also for its social and environmental values.

A forward-looking declaration that outlines the positive impact a business aims to have on the world.

A core practice in sustainable supply chains that focuses on cutting down on waste at every stage, from production to delivery.