The Green to Gold Playbook: Strategies of Natural Capitalism

Introduction to Natural Capitalism strategies on pp. 10-11

Task:

As Applied in the Playbook! Introduction On pages 10-11 of Natural Capitalism the four central strategies of Natural Capitalism are introduced and explained. Then, in The Green to Gold Playbook there are numerous examples of how these strategies are applied by businesses and leading corporations. In the Playbook, the strategies are not specifically identified but the application of them is clear from the examples. Here is an example: When a company finds ways to cut its energy use, it is applying the strategy of “Radical Resource Productivity,” i.e., the company is squeezing out more energy while consuming the same amount or less fuel. The assignment is for you to search though the examples in the Playbook and find those that illustrate the application of these four strategies. You must find and explain one example of the application for each of the four strategies. Write up the four examples in the form of a formal essay. Suggested Approach First study the four strategies in Natural Capitalism BOOK.

Then, as you read the Playbook, look for examples of how companies are applying these strategies. This will help you deepen your understanding of the four strategies and how they can help companies cut costs and/or increase profits. In many cases individuals and families, in addition to firms, can apply the strategies to save money and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Instructions 1. Go to pp. 10 & 11 of Natural Capitalism and carefully study the four central strategies of Natural(ATTACHED) Capitalism found there. Continue your study of these four strategies by carefully reading the rest of the chapter which provides an in depth explanation of each strategy. 2. From your reading of The Green to Gold Business Playbook, identify examples that illustrate the application of each of the four strategies.

This will not be easy! None of the examples are specifically identified as illustrations of these four strategies. Your challenge is to identify the examples that correspond to the strategies. As you read the assigned chapters in the Playbook, be alert to examples that “fit” the strategies. Expect to read most of the Playbook to find the examples you are looking for. You have all semester to find the examples and write your essay explaining them. Take notes as you read each of the required chapters and list examples that “fit” the strategies. When you are satisfied that you have found an example of each of the four strategies, you are ready to begin writing your essay.(SOME EXAMPLES ATTACHED) 3. Your essay should list and explain one example for each of the strategies. For each of the examples your essay must include the following information. (See sample answers below.)

a. The strategy that is illustrated by the example

b. The page in the Playbook where the example is found.

c. The name of the company or organization that implemented the strategy.

d. An explanation of how the example illustrates the strategy.

4. Your essay must be written in clear, grammatically correct English. It is a formal essay, that is, no texting shortcuts are allowed! See syllabus for instructions and regulation that apply to all BBA written assignments and tests.

5. Submit your essay in BbLearn in the submission box for this assignment.

6. An Example Essay On page 151 of the Playbook there is an example that illustrates the strategy of radical resource productivity (rrp). “The Hilton Hotel in Houston, Texas, reduced carbon emissions by 260 metric tons by using a water recycling system for its laundry facility. The AquaRecycle system reuses water to help the laundry maintain its ideal operating temperature, reducing use of natural gas for heating, and cutting water usage from 630,000 gallons to 157,000 gallons, a 74 percent decrease.” The hotel is getting much greater productivity from a smaller amount of water than they used before the introduction of the AquaRecycle system. In addition, a smaller amount of the fuel, natural gas, is being used to achieve the same outcome. Thus, the productivity of the gas used is also increased. The Sto Corp employed biomimicry* to produce Lotusan paint as explained on p. 190 of the Playbook. Examining the surface of the lotus flower, Sto Corp engineers discovered the surface of its leaves is covered in tiny peaks and valleys that cause water to pearl and roll off along with any dirt is captures.