Triple-Bottom Line with W.W. Grainger

Thank you to Net Impact VP of Events, Flor Fernandez, for contributing this post.

Last month, Net Impact had the pleasure of welcoming Ross Adams, Sustainability Analyst at W.W. Grainger. Ross joined us to speak to students about the different initiatives that the company has undertaken in order to run a more environmentally responsible business.

Grainger is America’s leading distributor of industrial supplies, MRO equipment, tools and materials; with a customer base of about 2.0 million businesses and institutions in 157 countries. This Fortune 500 company has developed a comprehensive approach toward ensuring the sustainability of its operations and reducing the impact on the environment. In this regard, the audience was able to learn about how Grainger’s triple-bottom line is based on people, performance and the planet.

During Ross’ presentation, he shared valuable insights about specific actions that Grainger has developed to improve energy efficiency in its facilities around the country, reduce its carbon footprint and improve water efficiency as well as indoor environmental quality for the benefit of its employees and customers. Furthermore, it was interesting to hear about Ross’ experience and perspectives about the importance of sustainability within a multinational and how to engage employees across the entire organization to support its sustainability efforts.

Ross also addressed numerous questions from the audience about everyday work in the sustainability department at Granger and offered advice on how to start a career in this area.

We’d like to thank Ross Adams for sharing his experience with us, as well as thank everyone who was in attendance. We look forward to seeing you at future Net Impact events!