Understanding The Ecology of Business: "Built to Last or Designed to Die?"

Private goods and public costs - what to do? Razor and razorblade models guide strategy for so many companies – can we maintain profitability and repeat customers without the waste that disposables generate? By understanding the extended nature of products, from design to disposal, we can see larger patterns that reflect more than the traditional linear supply chain. This discussion on product stewardship will introduce attendees to the concept of 'cradle-to-cradle' thinking and how it affects all companies. Representatives from the worlds of design, architecture, manufacturing and recycling will play key roles in an interactive conversation led by Professor Marty Anderson of Babson College. This session is the epitome of Babson's tradition: entrepreneurial thought in action. Questions are encouraged throughout the session.