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----- Original Message -----
From: Susan Himel
Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2000 9:19 AM
Subject: Linking health, environment and profitability An Ounce of Prevention: Ford and 3M Seek to Balance Short-Term Profits and Long-Term Problems In May, two major corporations made startling announcements that rocked the business world--and highlighted companies' growing awareness of the need to balance short-term profits with long-term environmental and corporate sustainability. William C. Ford, chairman of Ford Motor Company, acknowledged that sports utility vehicles--which account for more than 20 percent of the company's U.S. sales-- contribute more to global warming, emit more exhaust, and endanger other motorists more than standard cars. Ford said that the company would continue to make SUVs to fill consumer demand, but that it would seek ways to mitigate the environmental damage caused by the vehicles. The following week, the 3M Company announced that it will voluntarily phase out many of its popular Scotchgard products. Company researchers found that a chemical used to protect fabrics, carpet, and leather from staining tends to accumulate in human and animal tissue. Over time, this chemical could potentially pose a health or environmental risk. In each of these cases, corporate leaders emphasized the link between environmental and health issues and long-term profitability. Ford told reporters that he didn't want his company to appear to follow the cigarette companies' lead by continuing to manufacture a dangerous product. The enormous financial judgments levied by juries against tobacco companies may have served as an additional incentive for 3M and Ford to burnish their public images through these recent displays of corporate responsibility. Sources: "Ford's SUV Shocker," Salon.com, May 13, 2000; "3M Agrees to Phase Out Some Scotchgard Products" by Cat Lazaroff, Environment News Service, May 17, 2000. _________________________________________________________ Reference from: LEVERAGE POINTS for a New Workplace, New World _________________________________________________________ August 24, 2000 Issue 3 Welcome to LEVERAGE POINTS for a New Workplace, New World! This e-bulletin, free from Pegasus Communications, delivers news and ideas to help you create both a thriving business and a rewarding workplace community. LEVERAGE POINTS spotlights evolutionary advances in leadership, change management, personal development, and organizational design. Every issue delivers nuggets of innovative thought, practical knowledge, and pointers to key resources in the field. Please forward LEVERAGE POINTS to your colleagues and friends! --- If a colleague has forwarded Leverage Points to you and you want to subscribe, send a blank e-mail to:mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]. Susan Himel , M.E.S.
Research Consultant
Prevention Dividend Project
E-mail/Courriel: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Tel/téléphone: 416-532-7177
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