The AO chronicle: earth@omega or sustainability@alpha?

We are at perilous points in the histories of humanity and of planet Earth. Plant and animal species are disappearing at an alarming rate in parallel with ecosystem distress and destruction – with responsibility for and consequences of set firmly upon the furrowed brow of humanity. On one hand there is urgent need to abate global environmental degradation and on the other there is concern for humankind – alleviation of suffering and poverty through economic development. It appears increasingly likely that only great resolve with rapid and appropriate action born out of radical change in our worldview may forestall disaster. Too often, however, "the right‐hand doesn't know what the left‐hand is doing". Sustainable development is an area that considers these dual imperatives; examined herein are contributions that can be made to sustainable development by businesses applying organizational excellence principles to activities with environmental and societal implications.