The Blue Earth Summit held in London last week was a hub of inspiring conversations, innovative concepts, and forward-thinking initiatives. The energy was undeniable. If we are serious about creating a sustainable future, we must approach it with passion, optimism, and action—not fear. This positive energy reverberated throughout the summit, underscoring a vital message: the future of business success lies in innovation and sustainability, supported by strong government policy. However, the noticeable absence of government representatives highlighted a critical gap in driving the systemic change we need.
Innovation is key to business impact, and companies—whether large or small—have the power to make a difference when leadership is fully committed. A standout initiative came from Faith In Nature, which pioneered the concept of ‘giving nature a seat’ on their board. This environmental solution encourages businesses to actively consider nature in decision-making processes, showcasing how sustainability can be integrated into everyday operations. This innovation is just one part of a broader conversation about the future of purpose-driven business.
Entrepreneurs and innovators across industries like engineering, design, and tech are leading the charge. These purpose-driven leaders reject outdated systems and push for change. Their work underscores the importance of balancing profitability with environmental solutions, and they’re proving that you don’t need to choose between success and sustainability.
But why should anyone care about these efforts? Because we are all part of nature, not separate from it. Studies show that curiosity leads to care, and care drives action. To engage people in sustainable practices, we need to tell compelling stories that resonate with all ages. By rethinking traditional definitions of wealth and success, we can create a more inclusive approach to sustainability that goes beyond the boundaries of a Western mindset.
At the summit, speakers from companies like Sweaty Betty, Merrell, and Finisterre all emphasised that today’s consumers demand high-quality, durable, and sustainable products. If these qualities aren’t met, even the most eco-conscious customers won’t make the purchase. This highlights the importance of aligning sustainability with product excellence, something businesses must prioritise in their strategies.
However, while many companies face crises such as the cost of living and healthcare shortages, sustainability often takes a backseat. At Harlands, we believe that businesses can be both impactful and profitable. We are midway through our B Corp accreditation journey, examining every aspect of what we do to ensure we’re aligned with our purpose-driven mission. By updating our articles of association and sharing our impact statement, we hold ourselves accountable to our higher purpose. We’re not just ticking boxes—we’re committed to driving meaningful change.
As supporters of the Blue Earth Summit, we are excited to connect with other purpose-conscious businesses. We are curating a directory of experts who can help companies measure and improve their environmental and social impact. The future of business isn’t just about profit—it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change.
The Blue Earth Summit reaffirmed our belief that innovation and sustainability will shape the future. Change is coming from those who push boundaries, not from those who simply check boxes. It’s time to tell the stories that matter, drive innovation, and embrace our responsibility to the planet. Together, we can create a sustainable future where business impact goes hand in hand with environmental solutions.
If your business is ready to make that shift, we are here to support you. Let’s do business the right way—profitably, sustainably, and with pride—so we can ensure our businesses are sustainable in every sense of the word.
