Managing the change for sustainability

The Corporate Sustainability Certificate Program was developed by Regional Environmental Center (REC) Country Office Turkey and Bogazici University to prepare the private sector for the “threats” and “opportunities” of the new business model “Sustainable Development”. The program is supported by the Italian Ministry of Environment. The program which will take place in the Bebek Campus of Bogazici University between April, 1 – June, 11 2010 focuses on the needs of the private sector and consists of three modules. This program will be third after last years’ certificate programme named on sustainable development.

How was the program developed?
A key feature in the development of the program is the co-operation across several organizations, particularly Boğaziçi University, the Regional Environmental Center and the Italian Ministry of Environment. This unique initiative is the first-of-a-kind in Turkey based on the experience of the REC from the various programs it offers in many European countries.

• Business leaders of today and tomorrow need to realize the necessity to change and to re-consider the “business as usual” approach to management.
• Businesses need to start considering controversial questions on a range of social and ethical issues including health, safety, environmental pollution and use of natural resources that will have to be answered in the future.
• In the international business environment of today, effective use of natural resources is encouraged and rewarded. Since business integrity and values are key drivers of success, they take pride in measures to attain sustainable development. Businesses recognize the importance of taking action today and to be proactive for future generations.
• Turkey will be going through a time of major changes within the EU accession process. The Turkish private sector will need to be informed about the changes that will have a concrete and lasting effect on Turkish industry and business.
• Reflections of global efforts on sustainable development can only be possible by passing beyond the theory of sustainable development to implementations at the national, regional and local level. Lagging behind in adopting recent developments and commitments in a competitive global economy can result in loss of market share and reputation for Turkish business
• The program assists in developing priorities which include regional and local considerations. This will enable participants to integrate the goals of sustainable development into the company’s overall business strategy with benefits beyond the individual company to the entire community and region.