UII

Business & Development

Objectives

o WBCSD: a decade of thought leadership and practical experience in promoting business solutions to sustainability issues in developing countries and emerging economies

o Building on that journey, the publication aims to:• Define the business role in a broadening development agenda• Create awareness of the growing business opportunities and

contributions to development• Call on governments to establish the necessary framework

conditions for business to maximize its contribution to development• Invite other stakeholders to partner with business in the common

quest for a more inclusive and sustainable future

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Content

What are the key challenges and business opportunities in developing countries and emerging economies, and what do they mean for business leaders striving to

succeed in a sustainable world?

o Foreword by the Executives of the WBCSD Development Focus Area’s Steering Committee

o The Urgency of Sustainable Developmento Development Challengeso Business Opportunities, Business Solutionso Enabling Sustainable Business Growtho Conclusion

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Why should global business invest in sustainable solutions to development challenges?

o Business cannot succeed in countries that fail – stable and prosperous societies make for better business opportunities

o Risk management – addressing sustainability concerns helps securing the business license to operate, innovate and grow

o Future markets – by developing inclusive business models companies build positions in tomorrow’s growth markets

o Business opportunities – major technological and infrastructural investments are required to sustainably meet the needs of growing populations in developing countries and emerging economies

The business case

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o A transition to a more inclusive, low-carbon and resource efficient economy is required to solve the seemingly conflicting imperatives of improving the world’s living standards while preserving our environment. As an engine of economic growth and employment, and a driver of innovation and technology development, business has a critical role in enabling such a transition.

o Enhancing energy and resource efficiency, and finding new ways of sustainably meeting the rising demand for food, healthcare, shelter, energy, mobility, water, sanitation and communication are defining challenges in developing countries and emerging economies. The corresponding investments into infrastructure and technology by governments and the long-term demand for related products and services represent huge growth opportunities for business.

Highlights – 1

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o Development will not be sustainable and poverty cannot be alleviated without business engagement. However, good governance, economic incentives and appropriate and robust legal and institutional framework conditions are essential for business to play a meaningful role.

o Dynamic leadership is required in all sectors – with the understanding of how difficult it is for politicians to lead voters and CEOs to lead customers and investors in new directions.

o The WBCSD believes that the leading companies of tomorrow will be those that anticipate the trends outlined in this report and align profitable business ventures with the needs of society. Through its activities, it seeks to promote holistic solutions to sustainability challenges and seeks the necessary partnerships with other development actors.

Highlights – 2

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Download the publication at

http://www.wbcsd.org/work-program/development.aspx

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