Description: Green Management refers to a set of management practices that focus on sustainability and environmental impact. This approach seeks to integrate ecological considerations into business and organizational decision-making, promoting a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. Green Management involves adopting strategies that minimize the use of natural resources, reduce waste generation, and promote energy efficiency. Additionally, it encourages social responsibility and business ethics, urging organizations to consider their ecological footprint and implement practices that benefit both society and the natural environment. The main characteristics of Green Management include life cycle assessment of products and services, implementation of clean technologies, and promotion of the circular economy. This approach not only aims to comply with environmental regulations but has also become a key factor for competitiveness and innovation in today’s market, where consumers increasingly value sustainability in their purchasing decisions.
History: Green Management began to take shape in the 1970s, in a context of growing concern for the environment and sustainability. Events such as the 1972 Stockholm Conference and the 1972 report ‘The Limits to Growth’ by the Club of Rome, which warned about the consequences of unchecked economic growth, spurred the need for a more responsible approach to resource management. Over the decades, Green Management has evolved, incorporating concepts such as corporate social responsibility (CSR) and business sustainability, especially from the 1990s onwards, when international standards like ISO 14001 for environmental management began to be established.
Uses: Green Management is applied in various areas, including industry, construction, agriculture, and the service sector. In industry, it is used to optimize production processes, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste. In construction, sustainable building practices are promoted, such as the use of recycled materials and the implementation of renewable energy systems. In agriculture, sustainable farming techniques are applied that preserve biodiversity and reduce pesticide use. In the service sector, companies adopt sustainability policies that include reducing paper use and implementing recycling programs.
Examples: An example of Green Management is Interface, a carpet manufacturer that has implemented a sustainability program called ‘Mission Zero’, aiming to eliminate its environmental impact by 2020. Another case is the restaurant chain Chipotle, which focuses on using organic and locally sourced ingredients, promoting sustainable farming practices. In the construction field, the Bosco Verticale building in Milan is an example of green architecture, with its design incorporating a large number of plants and trees, contributing to improved air quality and biodiversity in the city.
