The sentiment the grass is
always greener holds true in my experience leading a national NGO to address local hunger & poverty, as well as working with a socially-minded business to transform the paper industry towards more sustainable practices.
From my vantage point in the NGO world, I was envious of my peers employed in business as they appeared to have far greater resource to develop and grow, countless communities of expertise to learn from and collaborate with, and a relative lightness to their actions depending on the extent to which their job defined their identity. The definition of organizational success was clear – maximize shareholder return – and this appeared to bring about a relative simplicity to their decision making.
A view from the inside of a socially-minded startup business confirms a far more complex reality. Resources are limited as the costs to do what is right and fulfill our mission are often higher – be that in delivering on bio-diesel trucks or using leading environmental product materials. While there is a temptation to cut corners and opt for the most cost-efficient solution, such efficiencies are sometimes gained at the expense of the environmental change we seek. Training & development opportunities are available in a general sense, most don’t seem to address the complexity of negotiating the interests of people, planet & profit.
Despite these challenges, the progress we’ve made is tangible and fulfilling. We have seen recycled paper that is processed without the use of toxic bleach move from the fringe toward the mainstream, many industries adopt practices to minimize their paper usage where possible and where not, use environmental papers (such as those manufactured by New Leaf Paper) that minimize the impact on planet, and capital flow into the sector to support the growth & development of such companies.
Having experienced these two perspectives, it is easier to see that we are part of the same ecosystem and each have a role in creating and sustaining a healthy world. Business & NGOs each have the power to shift industry, politics and consumer behavior if they recognize and leverage the role of the other. While I still have much to learn, I can safely say that neither is as simple as I had once thought.
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