As businesses are becoming increasingly accountable — both legally and in the eyes of the consumer — for the entire life-cycle of their products, environmental design and ecofriendly materials are rising to the top of corporate agendas. In this Net Impact panel discussion convened by the Stanford Graduate School of Business, executives from leading-edge companies share strategies for minimizing the environmental footprint of their products. From printers designed for take-back and disassembly, to biodegradable carpets and dematerialized answering machine, solutions may even increase profits along the way. Panelists include:
Jill Kauffman Johnson holds a Masters in Public Policy from Harvard University and a B.A. in Human Biology from Stanford University. She is now a Principal with program development and operations experience in environmental strategic planning. Ms. Kauffman Johnson is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Chemical Strategies Partnership (CSP), a national nonprofit dedicated to reducing chemical use in manufacturing through innovative supply chain approaches. She was also a member of the team that launched the Roots of Change (ROC) Fund, a foundation collaborative supporting work to catalyze the
transition to a healthier food system and a healthier environment in California. She currently serves as the Coordinator of the California Sustainable Food Business Leaders, an advisory group to the ROC Fund. Ms. Kauffman Johnson also serves on the strategy team for WELL Network, an organization uniting women throughout California to ensure the environmental health and well-being of families and communities. Prior to joining CEA, Ms. Kauffman Johnson was the founding Director of the Pacific Coast Regional Office of the Ocean Conservancy (formerly the Center for Marine Conservation).
Prior to joining EHC, Inc., Timothy Taylor was president and chief executive officer of Laird Norton Company LLC, a privately-held holding company. During his six-year tenure as chief executive officer, Mr. Taylor managed the company’s venture and liquid asset investments. Prior to his position as CEO, Mr. Taylor held several other positions at Laird Norton Company. Mr. Taylor’s experience was further expanded in the role of founder and president of three construction companies. The last of which, Taylor Hill, was a turn-key business focused on architectural restorations, millwork and contracting on 18th century buildings in New England. Mr. Taylor also played an active role as a founding member of the Investors Circle, a national organization designed to attract private equity into socially responsible and environmentally sound businesses. He currently serves on several not-forprofit boards related to environmental, forestry and conservation issues including the Pacific Forest Trust and the advisory board of Sustainable Northwest.
This free podcast is from our Bridging the Gap series.
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Photo: Stanford Media Services