Monday 20 October 2008

The ethical 100

I admit I'm a regular reader of the Sunday Times Rich List. Finding out how much Richard Branson has made this year, how near the top the Queen has made it and in what order the millionaire Dragons appear is hard to resist. However while their success cannot be questioned what about what they're doing to benefit society or help the environment?

On that note it's great to see the excellent Striding Out has launched a search for the Future 100, entrepreneurs aged 18-35 who are demonstrating entrepreneurial flair and innovation in progressing a responsible business venture.

I don't think I need to tell you that the people like Striding Out are seeking are the future of business. and for want of sounding cheesy, the future of the world.

A friend of mine, who fits into the Future 100 age range, is just about to embark on her first entrepreneurial adventure. I can't say too much at the moment but not only are her company's products ethical but she's striving to ensure her entire business processes follow the same principles. From renewable energy in her web hosting to recycled business cards, it's all about ethical values.

There's absolutely nothing wrong with making money but why not, like Striding Out say, balanace economic, environmental and social goals to achieve business success? The current economic crisis demonstrates that simply striving to make money no matter what can often end in disaster - or a least a credit crunch.