Private industry has a crucial role to play in sustainability. Hope King, Business Reporter for AXIOS, asked the panelists if they had noticed a change in pace toward sustainability during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alexandra Palt, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer at L’Oreal and CEO of the Foundation L’Oréal, and William McDonough, Chief Executive, McDonough Innovation, agreed that both had witnessed accelerated progress toward sustainability. McDonough noted an increased emphasis on climate change and intergenerational stewardship.
Focusing specifically on empowering women, Palt explained that progress can only happen when we have a more inclusive society that works together at all levels. L’Oreal is family-owned and inspired by that long history, she continued. Additionally, they have investors who understand the danger of climate change.
King asked the panelists to describe efforts toward sustainability in their own lives. McDonough noted composting and his efforts toward reformulating building materials like concrete. Palt explained her view that every gesture counts over this long-term process, and highlighted her effort to reduce her own food waste.
“You need to have programs at the local level – it can’t just come from the top down.”
Hope King, Business Reporter, AXIOS
“It has become clear to most people that climate is a critical issue.”
William McDonough, Chief Executive, McDonough Innovation
“We need the system to work for everybody because otherwise, as long as people don’t have food on their plate, they are not interested in long-term issues.”
Alexandra Palt, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer, L’Oreal, and CEO, Foundation L’Oréal
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