The Power of Innovation

This week's stories showcase the power of innovation -- in the form of new technologies and creative partnerships -- to help us address the daunting complexity of moving to a low-carbon economy.

First, the technology.

A number of our stories illustrate the potent role that advanced information technology will play in addressing the climate challenge. "Mapping the Future of Green Power, Stimulus Funds" describes the impact of Google Maps (yes, that's right) in aiding policy planning and education in the areas of alternative energy development. Meanwhile, a new partnership between IBM and Omron Corp. of Japan will offer advanced transportation and logistics solutions that serve to reduce the climate impacts of shipping. Finally, recent reports from CERES and Trucost illustrate the power of information in shaping the response of the financial services sector to the climate challenge.

Second, partnerships.

Our featured story from BSR on addressing carbon emissions in corporate supply chains is based on the work of companies in electronics and other sectors working with each other, as well as public agencies and funders, to identify new approaches and mechanisms for emissions reductions that may help bridge the divide between developing and developed economies. Meanwhile, WWF is teaming up with Michigan State University and other academic partners, under the auspices of the U.N. Environment Program, to identify opportunities to make agricultural choices that minimize carbon dioxide emissions. 

Eric Olson is vice president of advisory services at Business for Social Responsibility.

In this new book, brand expert Richard Seireeni interviewed over two dozen "ecopreneurs" from a broad range of industries -- home improvement, transportation, household products, food and beverage, energy, real estate, finance, and fashion -- to offer a rich source of wisdom for green businesses getting off the ground or for any business aiming to improve its environmental performance.

Writing from direct experience in building a sustainability program at the Aspen Skiing Company, in "Getting Green Done" Auden Schendler offers a peek under the hood of the green movement, showing what it means to implement climate solutions in the real world.

Bringing green products to the mainstream requires a focus on aligning environmental innovation with affordability. But how are successful companies designing greener products with little or no price premium? Join us at Greener By Design 2009 to see who’s evolving, who’s thriving, and how they’re producing products that aren’t just greener, but better — and more affordable.