In order to know the benefits, first we would have to ask ourselves what we understand about sustainability. It’s not simply being ‘green’, it’s much more than that: respecting the environment, understanding, training, incorporating, being an active part of society and looking for development in fair and responsible labor practices.
From production, it is key to find equilibrium between protecting the rights of workers and protecting the environment by incorporating principals of fair trade throughout the value chain.
From the side of consumers, it is finding products that satisfy a need and not only materially, but also emotionally, that incorporate in its purchase a feeling of ownership and being a part of the entire sustainable process.
The consumer doesn’t only look for the right size, price and quality o that the food or product is sustainable or healthy. The world wants to consume responsible products which is to say those that reach certain environmental and social standards, that have a commitment to the society in which is produced.
When we talk about sustainability what we look for is that the producer is involved and makes changes that last over time and that a consequence of that is their competitive advantage and added value of better returns.
To be sustainable does not necessarily meaning being expensive, the benefits are enormous and not only with those directly involved in the production processes but also with our surroundings.
We start from home, consuming more products and/or sustainable foods, healthier and wholesome. We arrange our waste and collaborate with recycling programs in our communities. We look for energy saving alternatives that not only are economically beneficial but also in terms of security and well being.
By: Jorge Cam
IMAGE: http://leadsmorton.umassd.wikispaces.net/file/view/sustainability.jpg/204665918/sustainability.jpg
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