A harmonious intermingling of four interconnected pillars are critical to the long-term wellness of the global order
By Kaushik Majumdar, Founder, KKINSUGI Pvt. Ltd.
To ensure evolution is balanced, stable, and sustainable we need to consider four pillars – Corporates, Businesses, Societies, and the Planet. The four are intrinsically connected. The harmony therein should be the focus for all stakeholders.
This philosophy requires a foundational shift – recognizing this interconnectedness. Businesses are not separate entities. They cannot operate in isolation disregarding societies and the planet.
Sustainable evolution requires, first, an ethical framework that prioritizes accountability and planetary stewardship. This ideology is best represented by the Cradle to Cradle (C2C) design framework, which promotes systems and products that emulate the regeneration processes seen in nature.
In this context, visionary corporations drive towards regenerative models, wherein they actively participate in the planet’s sustainability. They see the need for global collaboration for planetary resilience going beyond the scope of particular companies. They recognize without cooperation between governments, businesses, and civil society we cannot ensure the planet’s wellbeing and sustainability.
The futurist perspective predicts a move towards circular economies, where companies reduce waste, thus aiding in the recovery of ecosystems. They see technology as a tool for the benefit of the entire planet. Innovations in technology are not only for making money but also for preserving and restoring the environment. It is also anticipated that conscious consumerism will evolve – that people will make decisions that promote the welfare of the planet. Businesses will have to align with environmental ideals encouraging accountability and openness in their operations.
A comprehensive framework is necessary for the sustainable evolution of corporations, businesses, societies, and the planet. Within the framework of planetary awareness, integration entails combining a long-term visionary outlook with flexibility to respond to changing conditions. A company culture that is purpose-driven recognizes that global issues are dynamic, and is always alert to the need for sustainable and flexible methods.
Integration goes beyond the business realm to envision the building of resilient civilizations that coexist with the environment. A company culture with a clear mission actively tackles social injustices, encourages inclusivity and diversity, and advances economic possibilities for all. According to this holistic perspective, the development of enterprises serves as a catalyst for peaceful cohabitation on the Earth.
Certain tribal wisdoms are great sources of inspiration as they take such a philosophical and visionary perspective and naturally commit to sustainable coexistence with nature, living in harmony with all other beings. The concept of Buen Vivir of the Andean culture is a classic example. The good news is that there are forums that are taking inspirations from such wisdom and promoting the philosophy and the vision for not only the businesses but also the consumers.
Also, there are pockets of initiatives from within the urban world as well that are pushing for one or more of these dimensions. While someone is trying to clean the ocean helping with regeneration, there is someone else that is trying to reduce emission and waste. Yet someone else is promoting a circular economy in their own world while someone is pushing for conscious consumerism. The Paris Agreement too has been a serious step towards this. Such thought leadership and collaborative action tell us there is still hope. The governments, the corporates, the businesses, and the societies working together towards this single goal of sustainable evolution is what is needed today.
In conclusion, a harmonic quadrilateral of philosophical depth, visionary foresight, futurist innovation, and planetary consciousness is needed for the sustainable progress of corporations, enterprises, society, and the planet. The moral cornerstone is constituted by the concepts of harmony, ethics, and responsibility, which direct enterprises in realizing their interdependence with the environment, society, and the larger planetary ecosystem.
Visionary viewpoints drive companies toward regenerative models by utilizing innovation, encouraging international cooperation, and making a meaningful contribution to the health of the planet. Circular economies, technology for planetary good, conscious consumption, and a positive planetary effect are seen as the main forces for positive change in the future-focused perspective.
A business culture that takes into account the larger global context in addition to the economic and sociological ramifications is the result of integrating these viewpoints with a planetary consciousness. Businesses are custodians of a thriving world, inclusive society, and peaceful coexistence with the planet as we make our way towards a sustainable future. In this future, the development of enterprises will mirror human desires for a meaningful and sustainable life that coexists with the Earth.
