March 17, 1999
Press Release
Hon Simon Upton
The visit of Bjorn Stigson, Executive Director of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, provides an opportunity for New Zealand businesses to be brought up to speed on current international thinking about business and environmental sustainability, Environment Minister, Simon Upton said today.
Mr Stigson heads an international business group whose members include over 120 of the largest multi-national corporations in the world. He will talk to local business leaders on sustainable development issues today at a function hosted by Mr Upton.
Council members include 3M, AT&T, Du Pont, General Motors, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Phillips, Shell, Sony, Time Warner, Toyota, Unilever, Volkswagen and Xerox. Fletcher Challenge is the only New Zealand member. The Council commissions research on environmental issues and engages with other international organisations like the OECD and the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD). Mr Upton is the chair of the CSD's 1999 session.
The World Business Council developed the concept of eco-efficiency, which provides a framework for businesses to save costs and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability by reducing intensity of resource use and improving product design.
"Mr Stigson and the Council can provide advice to New Zealand businesses on how they can position themselves for a future where environmental, social and economic performance all matter. In order to avoid future risks and costs, and also to take advantage of emerging opportunities, it is vital that business is aware of this future," said Mr Upton.
Mr Stigson is meeting with Minister for Enterprise and Commerce Max Bradford as well as Mr Upton during his brief visit to New Zealand.
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Contact: Paul Goldsmith 04 471 9794