Institutionalizing Sustainability
Environmental issues are often managed by specific functions (e.g. EHS departments) or quasi-philanthropic groups in corporations (Corporate Responsibility departments or corporate foundations). Because sustainability issues are becoming more important to corporate strategy, this project will develop approaches for companies to embed sustainability efforts and functions into core business functions.

Driving Sustainability Across the Value Chain
Most environmental work and strategy in companies has been focused on direct operations, where firms have the most information, accountability, and ability to mandate action. However, many companies realize that the majority of their total system environmental impact (and the most promising opportunities) are found in upstream supply inputs and/or downstream retail and customer interfaces. This project will help companies 1) better understand and measure their system environmental footprint, 2) create strategies that achieve maximum impact in improving sustainability outcomes, and 3) develop strategies and business models that can capture the business value of sustainability across the business system.

Localizing Sustainability
The notion of sustainability has its roots in Western European and North American discourse about the environment, public and private sector action, and human development. As economic growth accelerates particularly in developing economies, local and multinational firms are facing increasing environmental challenges, but traditional Western and developed world approaches to sustainability are often inappropriate for application in different cultural, developmental, ecological, and economic contexts. This investigation will explore the local meanings and priorities related to sustainability in the four BRIC countries, identify locally-relevant best practices, and develop strategies to help both local and international businesses navigate the unique sustainability challenges in the dynamic BRIC markets.

Climate, Carbon Markets, and the New Energy Economy
Emissions from fossil fuel combustion and other sources are contributing to potentially catastrophic climate change. Many national and international efforts are focused on regulating carbon emissions and developing market-based approaches to mitigate climate risk and provide incentives for the development of alternative energy sources. This study explores the economics of climate change, the emergence of the carbon market, and the potential implications of these developments for the private sector.

Water Sustainability - Risks and Opportunities for the Private Sector
Reliable access to safe water is a key requirement for most businesses, yet growing stresses of water scarcity, increasing demand, pollution, failing infrastructure, degrading ecosystems, and social conflict are putting this critical resource at risk. This study will investigate the business risks associated with water issues, leading corporate water sustainability strategies, and the development of new indicators to measure a company’s efforts to improve the sustainability of this critical resource.