Saving more than $100M since 1998 by conserving energy, IBM continues to set environmental goals while openly reporting its performance, proving good practices generate good money.
IBM’s approach to the environment offers one such set of lessons. As a result of our research into Big Blue’s approach, we have identified three fundamental cultural traits that have informed IBM’s environmental initiatives of the past, present, and future:
- Leadership responsibility—While its internal environmental stewardship initiatives have been broad, IBM has also participated as a founding member of numerous industry and governmental organizations and helped develop global standards for environmental excellence.
- Open communication—Since the publication of its first environmental progress report, IBM has not only reported on its impact and progress in a clear and transparent manner, but has consistently communicated performance against its internal targets, which typically exceed government laws and regulations.
- Values-driven organization—Throughout the organization, a concern for IBM’s impact on the environment is apparent, from product design to the establishment of business practices. Beyond merely “doing the right thing,” a concern for the environment is embedded at all levels of the organization.
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