Management, 12th Edition

3

Ethics and Social Responsibility

Wisdom Learning From Others

> EVERYONE GAINS WHEN OUR PLANET IS A PRIORITY

“Business is the most powerful force in the world,” says Gary Hirshberg, “I believe that virtually every problem in the world exists because business hasn't made finding a solution a priority.” Co-founder, former CEO, and current chairman of Stonyfield Farm, the world's largest producer of organic yogurt, he's the author of Stirring It Up: How to Make Money and Save the World and was named one of “America's Most Promising Social Entrepreneurs” by BusinessWeek magazine.

The mission of Stonyfield Farm is straightforward: “Offer a pure and healthy product that tastes good and earn a profit without harming the environment.” This translates into a triple bottom line of being economically, socially, and environmentally responsible.

Hirshberg says that Stonyfield Farm “factors the planet into all our decisions…. It's a simple strategy but a powerful one.” “Going green is not just the right thing to do, but a great way to build a successful business.”

That thinking has helped grow Stonyfield Farm into the number one maker of organic yogurt in the world. The company uses dairy-farm suppliers who pledge not to use bovine growth hormone (BGH) and operates on the principle that “healthy food can only come from a healthy planet.” Hirshberg's current focus is on getting better labeling ...