What's Your RBI?

With spring training just starting it might be a little early to focus on RBI or "Runs Batted In" -- but with the changes coming out of Washington and the states, now is the time to evaluate your Responsible Business Intelligence.

Stefan Theil of Newsweek does an outstanding job of outlining these changes and truly historic opportunities for America to lead the new green economy in the March 2 Newsweek article "Greenest Nation."

The speed of these changes is incredible. In less than a month since taking the oath of office on January 20th, President Obama signed the largest economic stimulus bill in our country's history. With more than $80 billion of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act devoted to cleantech, now is the time to get smart on how to position your business for success.

New incentives are only half of the equation. After eight years, the cork at the end of the legislative mandate pipeline has been replaced by suction. Last week, the New York Times reported that EPA will act to regulate CO2 emissions within the year. It is a sure bet that additional federal and state mandates will also blossom from the regulatory renaissance.

In the words of Bob Dylan, "The Times They Are A-Changin." All of these changes have to be put into the context of an economy where Oprah is now worth more than General Motors. Now is the time for businesses of all stripes to tune their radar. The changes that are being set in motion, coupled with the new economic order, will likely produce a shake-up of epic proportions. Understanding the new landscape of environmental incentives and mandates is essential to developing effective business strategies for the future ... whatever that may be.

Tim Mohin is a principal consultant and team leader for EORM's growing sustainability and corporate social responsibility practice. Formerly, Tim was Apple's senior manager for supplier responsibility and led Intel's environmental and sustainability efforts. He also led the development of national environmental strategy at the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Senate, including the development of the National Environmental Technology Act. Email him by clicking here.