Introduction by session chair: Doug Wotherspoon, Algonquin College

As a society, how when we recognize the fragility of the earth's ecosystem do we stand by and watch its continued destruction? How can we be so aware of the impact yet collectively fail to act. This session introduction presents a number of ideas for moving from awareness to action.

Triple Bottom Line Management: Jeff Westeinde, Quantum Murray LP

A Holistic Approach to Water Purification: Ray Novokowsky, Eco Vu Inc.

Mr. Novokowsky presents a holistic, sustainable and profitable approach to water purification.

Industry being motivated by “profitability” often finds itself in tension with society where motivation derives from a focus on the public good and well being. Well being means the avoidance of ecologically destructive practices. This well being also includes stewardship of nature and co-existing in “environmental harmony”.  A reconciler must be found for the “profitability-environmental harmony” dyadic tension. An example of such a reconciler is sustainability. A triad of “profitability-sustainability-environmental harmony” creates a newly forged dynamic and reconciled relationship. With a holistic, sustainable approach to water purification, “profitability” interests are served by ensuring water resources will be available for future profits and “in harmony with the environment” interests are served by ensuring that the water resources are managed and protected for future generations.

EcoVu's new and unique Water Purification Technology derives from a deliberate design process that mimics nature's own water purification process, providing an ecological friendly and sustainable tool-set for cleaning water.

Emerging Markets for Ecosystem Services - Harnessing the Market for Sustainable Resource Use: David Greenall, Deloitte & Touche

New assets: natural capital

Climate change is heralded as the defining issue facing society. Corporate leaders from various sectors are taking action: assessing physical vulnerability to impacts, monitoring and reporting emissions and integrating climate change into corporate strategy to benefit from emerging market opportunities and leap ahead of regulatory developments. While climate change is undeniably important, what is perhaps more interesting is the lack of attention paid to the state of ecosystem services. Due to the dependence of companies and communities on these fundamental life support systems, their health ultimately affects the long-term viability of both businesses and society. Corporations and communities rely on healthy, functioning ecosystems to supply these goods and services indefinitely. Mounting evidence suggests that action is required to integrate these services into our decision-making processes to mitigate further risks. For companies, ecosystem services will need to be factored into decision-making as often as are economic capital, regulation, and shareholder and stakeholder issues.