From the course: The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Project Management
Why sustainability matters in project management
From the course: The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Project Management
Why sustainability matters in project management
- So why does sustainability matter in project management? Let's start with some hard hitting facts. According to the World Economic Forum, around $2.5 trillion is needed annually to achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Yes, that's a trillion with a T, massive. But guess what? These aren't just numbers, these are real, tangible goals to eradicate poverty, ensure clean water, and tackle climate change, among others. And how do we reach these goals? Through projects. Projects are the bridges between today's problems and tomorrow's solution. The way we design, manage, and execute projects can either contribute to the problem or be a part of the solution. The choice is ours. Let's take an example. Imagine you're managing a project to construct a new office building. You could go the usual route, cut costs, fast track processes, and get it done as soon as possible. But what if you integrate sustainability? You might choose renewable materials, implement energy efficient designs, and perhaps even involve the community in decision making. The end result, a building that not only serves its purpose, but also contributes positively to its environment and community. But it's not just about saving the planet, incorporating sustainability into your projects is also good business sense. Companies that focus on sustainable practices are shown to have better long-term profitability and public image. And let's not forget, your stakeholders and customers are increasingly valuing sustainability. It's a win-win. In this course, I will argue with practical tools, techniques, and strategies to make sustainability a core part of your project management practice. And you can find more details about my vision on sustainable project management on my Harvard Business Review article, "Project Leaders Will Make or Break Your Sustainability Goals." So are you excited? Because I can't wait to share all of this knowledge with you.
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