We strongly believe in ethical business, with respect and preservation
of humans, animals and the environment.
There are plenty of businesses that show it is possible to achieve
success on a foundation of fair labour conditions and environmental
credentials. Companies that operate with a high carbon footprint (and ecological
footprint) undermine the effort to achieve sustainability in our relationship
with the environment.
Businesses should be proactive in reversing climate change. The economic
potential of corporations to fund carbon capture via reforestation programmes
is so much greater than that of individuals that the key to success
is in their playing a leading role.
The general principles of capitalism can accommodate our urgent need to address
climate change. It is in the interest of a company’s
shareholders to reverse climate change. It is no good to receive
dividends if we have no planet to live on. Ethical business
and offsetting on a large scale is good for businesses, it is an investment
in creating a sustainable future.
We do not believe in a carbon tax. It has no environmental
benefits unless it is used exclusively to fund carbon capture. It is more
pragmatic to incentivise companies to become zero footprint, or even
to super-offset
their emissions, in order to participate in reversing climate change.
Ultimately a sustainable future will be one where all business is ethical
and zero footprint.
Governments can play an active role in bringing about these changes by redefining
what is expected from business.