How Small Firms Innovate Sustainably

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have access to best practices and resources that pay off, build brand equity and community support, that help sustain ecosystem services - practices that make this triple bottom line achievable and profitable. Presenters at the recent Profitable Sustainability conference in Seattle (September 26-29, 2004) provided a multitude of useful tips and resources for SMEs to innovate better and be successful. One common thread to emerge was how SMEs are succeeding at improving the sustainability of their supply chain. Another was how SMEs are cooperating to lower operating costs while improving their triple bottom line. Early adopters may be prone to overselling their green benefits, but even seasoned SMEs can learn from others to tactfully market green products and services.