From the Editor’s Desk: Should ‘sustainability’ include wages and benefits?

We’re incredibly excited to bring our mission — to accelerate the global transition to a circular economy — to COP26. The conference is a milestone moment in the global transition to a circular economy, and we’ll be hosting and participating in a series of events demonstrating that the circular economy is key to tackling global challenges including climate change and biodiversity loss. Eliminate. Circulate. Regenerate. The transition to renewable energy is vital in order to tackle climate change — but it’s only half the story. 45% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from the way we make and use products and food.

President Biden signed an executive order that demonstrates how the United States government will leverage its scale and procurement power to lead by example in tackling the climate crisis. The executive order will reduce emissions across federal operations, invest in American clean energy industries and manufacturing, and create clean, healthy, and resilient communities. The President’s whole-of-government effort will create well-paying jobs, grow industries, and make the country more economically competitive.  “Right now we have a massive opportunity to create millions of clean energy jobs, save taxpayer money through reduced energy costs, and build a more sustainable future for generations of Americans,” said GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan. “Today’s actions demonstrate how GSA and our federal partners will move forward with a bold vision that meets this moment in history by harnessing the power of American ingenuity and innovation.”