As author Bjarni Herrera notes in his introduction, the intention of this book is not to persuade readers to “join” the corporate sustainability movement but to present it as a current reality. It is not an optional approach but one that is absolutely essential for any business to come to terms with. Inaction could be both a missed opportunity and a costly mistake.
As much as there are huge benefits available to those who get to grips with Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) frameworks, there are many obstacles ahead. As Herrera writes: “Corporate sustainability and sustainable finance face significant challenges, particularly political backlash and greenwashing. Populism often resists business involvement in environmental and social issues, while superficial efforts lead to greenwashing accusations.” The author’s task is to clearly show a route through the confusion and contradictions of the many previous works on sustainable finance and provide a hands-on, real-world-referenced guide on how to move a business forward.
Working within ESG frameworks is not a passing trend but something integral to all future business and commercial enterprises. The author answers the traditionalist’s charge that sustainable finance is somehow needlessly shackled by the so-called “woke agenda” by pointing out that “actions like reducing negative environmental impact, respecting human rights, ensuring strong governance, and paying fair taxes are not woke but good business and fundamental responsibilities.”
The book is thorough, breaking down and investigating each aspect of sustainable finance with clear and concise prose. There are chapters on human rights, biodiversity, climate change, and cybersecurity. Each section is impeccably referenced, and Herrera does an excellent job in clarifying how and why each subject is important and how they fit together.
Though perhaps not a book for the casual reader, SUPERCHARGING SUSTAINABILITY remains easy to follow and jargon-free. For those involved in corporate finance and business, it offers clarity and promotes opportunity in a rapidly evolving area. It is a positive manual for those who want to become part of the solution for a sustainable future.
Bjarni Herrera’s SUPERCHARGING SUSTAINABILITY is a valuable manual for anybody looking to navigate the often overwhelming area of ESG financial frameworks. With clear prose and meticulous references, Herrera shows how profitability need not be at the expense of environmental and ethical responsibility.
~Kent Lane for IndieReader