Associations Integrating Sustainability
There are endless possibilities, and sometimes expectations, for how associations approach sustainability. The United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as a framework to drive collective action and a starting point for any organization seeking to integrate sustainability goals into their strategy. At the Washington International Association Forum (WIAF) where dozens of association executives gathered, Whitney Buchmann provided guidance for how associations can identify the right sustainability focus for them and shared examples of businesses that are prioritizing innovation and growth grounded in SDGs.
Whitney shares why associations should care about sustainability at WIAF.
In 1987, the United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Needs of people go beyond the impacts of climate change - the common focus of sustainability initiatives - and extends to needs for decent work, reduced inequalities, good health, and peace. The 17 SDGs encompass this holistic view of sustainability and it can feel overwhelming for one organization to tackle all of them. Illustra Impact encouraged attendees to start by considering which goal(s)…
Their industry can have a focused impact on.
Are relevant and rooted in their local community needs.
Take into consideration their global reach, including direct and indirect stakeholders.
Through engaging and interactive exercises, participants walked away with a set of goals and ideas for how to take action on them within the context of their own association.
