DCSBN Member Meeting 2007

The first annual DCSBN membership meeting ( a requirement for all DC-based not-for-profit organizations) was held at the Hotel Helix on December 6, 2006. The board presented a summary of accomplishments to date as well as engaged in a discussion around many ideas proposed for 2007. Members-and interested guests-provided feedback on each of the following:

1. DCSBN's Corporate Responsibility Symposium - to be held June 8, 2007 at George Washington University featuring sessions on 'The Business Case for Corporate responsibility', 'The Redevelopment Plans for Washington DC' and how to leverage global efforts to benefit the 'capital of capitalism.'
2. A sustainable cuisine series of meals and tours at local socially-responsible restaurants and eateries.
3. Identifying and recognizing businesses in the National Capital area that are committed to sustainability and integrating it into their business models through the creation of a directory, recognition program (plaques for display in their establishments) and CR awards of some kind.
4. The Building A Better World Speakers Series that brings prominent authors and speakers on sustainability to Washington DC.
5. Membership benefits such as working with clean energy and consulting organizations that are offering their services to DCSBN members at a reduced rates.
6. Offering pracitcal tools and programs that help build better businesses and stronger communities.
7. Learning and networking opportunities throughout the year, including efforts to advance as well as promote the sustainability agenda in Washington DC.

DCSBN will be engaging with members and those who attended further as we finalize our plans for 2007. Comments can also be submitted here, on this blog, or to dcsbn@dcsbn.org

Business Taking The Lead on Global Warming

Businesses must respond to public perception, rather than political or even scientific realities. So it is not surprsing that while the Senate hearing on 'Climate Change and the Media' was marked by political accusations of misrepresentation and scientific co-option, Daniel Schrag, a Harvard scientist, pointed out that the best evidence that climate change is a real threat is that many businesses and the insurance industry are taking it seriously.