Ecologically Sound Business: Henry Kravis of Kohlberg, Kravis, Roberts & Co. And the Environmental Defense Fund
Kohlberg, Kravis, Roberts & Co (KKR) was founded in the 1970’s and in those days their main business was in ‘bootstrap’ buyouts. But recently they have put together a groundbreaking venture which concentrates not solely on how much profit they can make, but additionally on how environmentally aware each of their companies are.
When Henry Kravis from KKR and the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) got together only a year ago green matters all of a sudden became a mainstream idea. They wanted to help resolve all important environmental matters, for instance soil contamination, global warming, undue consumption of water resources, and resource depletion.
To achieve these goals, they employ eco-efficiency which uses techniques such as optimizing data centers for efficiency, reducing the waste of resources, and using clean energy. The project was a great success, nevertheless the KKR and EDF did not even understand the full program’s benefits until Ken Mehlman, the head of the project and global public affairs, studied the program following its first year in operation. Much to everybody’s surprise, Ken saw that this program not only diminished the impact on the planet, but was increasing the profitability of each business organization as well. Currently, KKR and Ken Mehlman have virtually every associated business organization involved in eco-efficiency. However, when you consider that the group has a current business portfolio worth eighty-six billion USD, you may be certain this was not a simple accomplishment.
Kohlberg, Kravis, Roberts & Co and the EDF with the assistance of Ken Mehlman are further expanding the initial program. The Climate Corps Program founded by the Environmental Defense Fund is a good example of this, it advances earth friendly business techniques to students taking an MBA.
KKR and Ken Mehlman have made the effort to create metrics and analytical tools that quantify and manage various resources. With this information available, businesses can assess each of their day-to-day operations and ascertain where any issues may be resolved while at the same time permitting them to determine their impact on the planet.
The business world has been changed forever by the ground breaking work of these groups. In conclusion, these systems have made green business practice not only viable, but commercially desirable, and their radical ideas are setting a new standard in today’s world.
