24th Annual Wege Lecture on Sustainability Featuring Business Leader and Author Paul Polman
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Becoming Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More Than They Take
In this purpose-driven talk, Polman will discuss responsible leadership and how net positive businesses can contribute more to the environment and society than they take away.
Paul Polman is an internationally recognized business leader, philanthropist, investor, speaker and advocate for sustainable development. A co-architect of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, he continues to drive system-wide change by developing industry coalitions, accelerating leadership and advancing sustainable finance through board roles, impact investments and strategic advisory positions.
As CEO of Unilever (2009–2019), he pioneered a more responsible and purpose-driven business model, demonstrating that sustainability delivers superior performance. During his tenure, shareholder returns increased by 290% while the company was consistently ranked as the world’s most sustainable business and one of the world’s best places to work.
This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. A live stream link will also be available closer to the event date.
Presented by:
- U-M School for Environment and Sustainability
- U-M Center for Sustainable Systems
- U-M Frederick A. & Barbara M. Erb Institute