Rob Sisson of ConserveAmerica argues that sustainable practices can be good for the environment and the bottom line
The keynote speaker at Upstate Forever’s annual ForeverGreen Awards Luncheon, Rob Sisson, tackles issues at the crossroads of business, conservatism and environmental conservation. For 20 years, he has been president of ConserveAmerica, whose mission is “to restore the Republican Party’s great conservation tradition.” Sisson’s background is commercial banking, and he is author of two books about financing small business. He shared his thoughts with UBJ on why conservation is good for business.
What’s the biggest misconception about the relationship between business and environment?
That all businesses exploit the environment for profit. In reality, the vast majority of businesses understand that sustainable practices enhance the bottom line and continuity of the business.
What are the most effective arguments for convincing conservative businesspeople that a healthy environment is good for business?
Case studies or examples of how similar businesses have adopted environmentally friendly practices and profited from it. There are thousands of examples in the U.S. alone. One of the most common is manufacturers who discover that reclaiming, cleaning or reusing water is more efficient than inputting clean water, then sending it into a sewer or drain. A new car wash in my hometown reduced its water bill at least 60 percent that way and can offer lower prices than competitors. The environmental benefit is a bonus.
Which arguments don’t work?
“It’s the right thing to do.” Businesses exist to make money and must compete with other businesses in the marketplace, so there is a tendency to not go the extra mile for altruistic reasons if it impacts competitiveness.
How have conservative attitudes about conservation changed in the past 20 years?
The definition of what it means to be a conservative has changed, so many people who rally to the conservative banner today have no idea of the principles of people like Russell Kirk. He was known as Ronald Reagan’s conservative conscience and said, “Nothing is more conservative than conservation.”
Today, many would say that “conservation” is not part of the definition of a conservative. Helping redefine or take back the term is, in itself, worthy of a major national campaign.
What factors have contributed most to that change?
Conservative talk radio, cable networks, and special-interest money invested in politics.
Have you ever spent time in the Upstate?
Unfortunately, no, only the coast. Upstate Forever, though, is well known to me, and probably all conservation leaders in the country, as one of the premier organizations in the U.S.
What advice would you give businesses in our area?
“Conservation” is not a code word for “expensive.” If businesses have not yet considered how sustainable practices could help their business model, there are many resources to help them determine what, if any, strategy can help their bottom lines.
Also, the millennial generation expects the businesses where they work or shop to have an environmental conscience. And citizens from the faith community view Creation Care as part of living their faith. Businesses should get ahead of the curve, if only for competitive reasons.
