Better Business Better Future

by Elisabet Lagerstedt

An excellent read for entrepreneurs, corporate business leaders, board members, and strategists aiming to future-proof their business by integrating sustainability into the very core.
This book offers a way forward, helps you understand the Sustainability Revolution, and provides valuable insights into the journeys and strategic choices of sustainability trailblazers such as Patagonia, Interface, Ørsted, Unilever, IKEA, Oatly, and others.

Because you are not the first company to discover the potential in doing well by doing good, or as William Gibson said: "The future is already here - it's just not very evenly distributed".

Still, many wicked problems urgently need innovative solutions. Solutions that the world of business is particularly well equipped to address through the ingenuity, creativity, collaboration, and resources that it can so often call forth more effectively and efficiently than other human organizations. Here and now, this requires a move beyond business as usual and a transformation into Better Business.

Genres: Business

352 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[the Aarush · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better Business Better Future is a visionary guide, brilliantly navigating sustainable entrepreneurship. It's a compelling, insightful blueprint for impactful, ethical business practices in our dynamic world. A must-read for future-focused leaders.

[Prashanth Bhat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is good for those new start up boom currently trending in india.
This book step by step tells us what is the difference between a bad business model and good.

The problem solving methods, crisis management in business are also discussed here.

I not have a experience in any business but this book kept my interest

Liked it.

[Augustine · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Better Business Better Future" by Elisabeth Lagerstedt is a compelling guide tailored for business leaders seeking to infuse sustainability into the very fabric of their organizations. Lagerstedt deftly navigates the complex terrain of integrating environmental and social responsibility, presenting a roadmap that transcends mere corporate social responsibility initiatives. The book's strength lies in its holistic approach, urging leaders to embark on a journey that encompasses stakeholder consultation, employee engagement, and board alignment.

The author introduces the StepUp framework and the Fit for Purpose Model, offering practical tools to shape a personalized Better Business strategy. Lagerstedt contends that a company's purpose statement should be a beacon, guiding decision-making while accommodating local nuances. She emphasizes the pivotal role of transparent communication, urging businesses to move beyond rhetoric and set concrete targets for sustainable practices.

Lagerstedt's work is underscored by a profound belief in the transformative power of purpose-driven business. The call to action resonates throughout, encouraging leaders to co-create a future where profitability aligns seamlessly with societal and environmental well-being. With insightful examples and a pragmatic self-assessment tool, "Better Business Better Future" inspires a new era of corporate leadership committed to building a sustainable legacy for generations ahead.

"Better Business Better Future" exposes widespread deficiencies in corporate sustainability reporting, revealing a concerning reliance on vague language and a lack of concrete targets. A mere 22% of companies offer Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in summarized statements, with 10% providing none. The scattered nature of KPIs across narratives complicates understanding, affecting 68% of companies.

Lagerstedt advocates for strategic alignment in setting sustainability goals, echoing recommendations from sustainability leaders. Fact boxes at case beginnings summarize key elements, though anecdotal perceptions may arise due to reliance on interviews. The book emphasizes considering fundamental aspects like purpose, value proposition, target groups, geography, and operations.

Noteworthy is the Better Business, Better Future initiative, presenting data in a structured manner to enhance credibility as a sustainability leader. Lagerstedt's work serves as a critical resource for businesses aiming to integrate sustainability effectively.

Shifting from my usual fiction reads, delving into business literature with "Better Business Better Future" proved refreshing. The discussion on co-creating a higher purpose for businesses is insightful, yet a few refinements could amplify its impact. To enhance clarity, the concept of a "higher purpose" should be defined more explicitly, accompanied by compelling examples showcasing successful implementations and their resulting benefits. The use of more engaging language, incorporating active and descriptive expressions, could elevate the content's appeal. Improving overall organization through clear headings and subheadings would guide readers seamlessly through the recommended steps. Additionally, enriching the content with more specific and actionable recommendations, such as a step-by-step guide for involving employees or in-depth case studies, would deepen its practical value. In making these adjustments, "Better Business Better Future" has the potential to serve as an even more effective guide for businesses navigating the terrain of co-creating a higher purpose.

[Chris Maddix · Rating 4 out of 5]

How does one achieve a better business? Elisabet Lagerstedt suggests to "surf the waves of the sustainability revolution in order to stay relevant," by identifying a regeneration inflection point, which is a moment where adopting sustainability is necessary for the survival of a company. Ms. Lagerstedt is apparently a follower of Al Gore, who sums up the urgency to embrace sustainability thus - "...the sustainability revolution has the magnitude of the agricultural and industrial revolutions but the speed of the digital." So, if better business can be attained through sustainability, what is the definition of better business? To achieve better business, one must make money, but must also minimalize ecological and social impact through regeneration, that is, advance human prosperity within the boundaries of nature, a process that "... should have commenced during the industrial revolution." Why the sense of urgency? Per quotes from Ms. Lagerstedt, in the next 100 years we will see as much change as we saw in the previous 20,000, we are presently consuming more than is sustainable, and we are adding 40 billion tons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere annually. Oh my!

Author Lagerstedt urges her sustainability path to successful business, suggesting that the advice of philosopher Schopenauer regarding truth and opposition to truth should be heeded, and that adherence to this advice will overcome expected ridicule and opposition. She cites 6 companies as quite successful in this endeavor. These are Patagonia, a clothing company, Interface, which deals with carpet tile, Oersted, which creates renewable energy, consumer goods manufacturer Unilever, furniture maker Ikea, and plant-based food and drink maker Oatly. She goes on to describe how each company recognized the "wicked problems" of climate change, a growing population, and depletion of natural resources and overcame them through a systematic 5-step method. In her summary, Lagerstedt presents 12 Guiding Principles to better business.

There exists almost a faith-based feel to exhortations such as these regarding sustainability, but Ms. Lagerstedt is certainly determined about her methodology and convinced about the correctness of her path.

[Fedythereader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author and @booktasters_ on Instagram for sharing a copy of this book with me!!

Inspirational, educational and creative book about business and all its aspects. I have to admit this is my first time reading a book such as this one. I wasn’t sure how I would have liked it. I’m pleasantly surprised to say that I enjoyed it very much. It took a bit to get into, not going to lie, but it overall felt like a book I liked and was inspired by. I especially did enjoy the way the author use to explain complicated topics to readers who might not be experts on the subject.
I would highly recommend this especially to all those small and new entrepreneurs who are trying to build their own career and business and maybe they don’t know where to start or how to gets those results they so need and want. Pick up pen and paper and be ready to write down everything that comes to mind (as the author suggests at the very beginning) to learn as much as possible. I found especially helpful how every concept, written down with proper wording, was also accompanied by some pictures, graphs and tables that were so explicit and clear in their structure. There books that will have you take your time to get to the end of them. Books that are there for more than just entertainment. But this one … it was needed. And I’m so very glad I got to experience it all!

[Hafsa · Rating 5 out of 5]

99% of my readings are fictional books, with them I tend to get lost and escape to another world. When I was given the opportunity to read Better Business Better Future, I was like why not.

I have to say I am glad I read it. Its truly an eye opener for me, an excellent read for the business world in general. It gives you an understanding of how to identify and solve business issues, problems and most importantly how to priotise things in the business world.

After reading this book you get a better understanding of how the economic business and financial world works.

Elisabet Lagerstedt is indeed inspirational, an amazing and intelligent author, full of knowledge, wisdom and understanding of how business operates.

This book is a most read to everyone, especially for entrepreneurs and startup companies.

Welldone Elisabet, you are sincerely an amazing author.

[Pasang · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Highly recommended book who want to do impact driven work. The focus on sustainability and better business for better future is highly valued and informative.
This book is highly valuable book for any impact driven individual,leaders. The book has presented many real world business case and strategies have been discussed which is very handy for business leaders,strategist,entrepreneurs.

[Bertus Venter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Presenting a compelling case for sustainable business practice and highlighting the efforts of corporations like Oatly, IKEA and others already leading the way to 'Better Business', the book inspires hope for the future of the economy more than anything one sees in mainstream media. Emphasizing the need to evolve beyond 'business as usual' while proactively seeking out business opportunities that reduce environmental impact and promote ecological restoration.
Lagerstedt's research culminates in an effective set of tools to get your company on the right track for sustainability and long-term profitability in a world that demands ever more holistic, environmental thinking and problem-solving.
A spark of light in the otherwise grim landscape of climate change.

[Fatiii Haddouch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had I not been given the opportunity, Better Business Better Future would have never been a read I would have chosen for myself, considering the fact that I read mostly fiction, Better Business Better Future seemed like an odd choice; of course, at first I thought of this book as one of those boring study books you have to read, or at least pretend to read, for a college class.

I was…wrong, giving this book a chance completely changed the way I look at the economic world, as well as the fact that I now understand business much better.

BBBF is a must read for all those who are studying economics, but not only for them, but also for all those who really want to understand how this world works. In a place and a time where business has taken over the world, we must be up to date and know what are our possibilities.

Indeed, Elisabet shows that she has a lot to say about this matter, and I am sure we will be hearing from her in the future as well

[Swati · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say I am glad I read it. Its honestly eye open my eyes... After reading this book you get a better understanding of how the economic business and financial world works.
A great book! I'm in my teen and that book give me a lot of ideas...
If someone wants to know about business world and how it's work..
Give a chance guys..

[Ghali Ashafa · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book! Certainly a pioneering research into regenerative business in the absence of peer review journals/articles. Although Slight improvement needs to be carried out regarding the synergy between diagrams and page number.

[Desiree Nashla · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the great things in the world is looking for a promising future. When I started this book I honestly thought I would end up putting it aside, but then I picked up the pace.

"Better Business" is one of those books that seeks to explain what is truly the function or operation of a good company and its management for a more advanced world.
4.5/5 ✨️

[Patrick Mwangi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elizabeth in her book 'Better Business Better Future' reinforces the need to have impact driven businesses which are sustainable in the long run.
She has given very good examples of firms like unilever and CEOs that have driven this process immensely.

Talk about ESG scores and how the business runs on Fit to Purpose Model.

Glad for the insights.

[Jana Elmasry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great book , it was very informative and most of the words the author used were actually understandable and easy incase someone’s native language isn’t english. It actually helped me as a person to have more insight about business and all some of the thoughts of people about this topic.

[Collins Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Better Business, Better Future" by Elisabet Lagerstedt offers an intelligent look at how businesses can contribute positively to the world through sustainable practices.

The book points out strategic ways companies can incorporate sustainability into their core operations to create a more equitable and sustainable future. The author uses several case studies from sustainability trailblazers like Patagonia, Interface, and IKEA to show that being environmentally responsible can also be beneficial for businesses. She also emphasizes the importance of transformative thinking and collective effort in achieving these goals.

I like the book for its practical insights and real-world applications as it provides a step-by-step guide on how businesses can move from traditional practices to more sustainable operations.

One of the things that stood out for me was how it introduced the "StepUp Framework," which outlines strategic intents and good practices across various business aspects. This framework helps leaders to embed sustainability deeply and meaningfully within their organizations.

Big ups to the book for its clarity, thoroughness, and the actionable strategies it offers. I'd recommend it to anyone in leadership or strategic roles within a business, particularly those looking to make a significant impact on their company's sustainability journey

[Brenda Loeb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this book made me think a lot about the constant invitation that Millennials have to start a business in which we can be our own boss and be independent, however, it seems to me that we always ignore the part in which creating a company can also to become our own boss, to give ourselves fundamental tools to change our future, not only economically but also the future that we want to give to our children, to ourselves, to guarantee creating socially responsible companies, caring for the environment, that completely eliminate or almost completely the carbon footprint that in other times was not even considered.

I really like the practical examples, the graphs you refer to, because it is also important to evaluate, today, as consumers of brands, products and services, the importance of creating a better business, for our own future and that of others. those who follow us.

Excellent book, I recommend it.

[Saim MOHAMMAD · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a great book to the people who are thinking to start their own business in near future great insights and great presence of mind...Worth Learning

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was magnificently written and described particular details on what to expect in the realities of business! I do have to emphasize that most business books indicate many factors that someone who is newly exposed to this world may not entirely understand it in the first read, however, this book does detail some of them in a very careful manner and is also properly paced to allow the reader to absorb the information they read. I read one chapter for a week and took a break since that is my structure on how to read books that talk about these topics and it is very understandable.

[Nyx Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most of the books that i have read so far in the year have been fiction and fantasy, and i am not one to give fake reviews or gloat without understanding books.

Colour me surprised when i got hooked to a non-fiction book. When i got this book for a review, I thought to myself that it's going to be like many others that surface.

Better Business Better Future is focused on how we can help better the business while keeping in mind that the effect that will take place in the environment and keep in mind the impact of it on the future.

After reading this, the reader can understand how the economy, business, and fiscal aspects are interconnected.

This book is a gem that can be used by entrepreneurs, new business owners, and businesses that have been in market space for much longer.

[Lyn O · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elisabet did a fantastic job.Her passion for the subject shines through. This book should be a must-read for all business leaders! It offers invaluable insights into what true sustainability looks like for businesses, the steps needed to implement it, and the consequences of failing to do so.

[Ayezu Tamarapreye Okoko · Rating 4 out of 5]

BETTER BUSINESS ,BETTER FUTURE BY ELISABET LAFERSTEDT

BOOK REVIEWER -OKOKO AYEZU TAMARAPREYE

The book is a self help book discussing a wide range of topics from fear of failure to meet the climate target by 2050; embracing a larger goal in corporate business;our ability as a world to fix our problems through innovation,creativity and other means;it looks at human prosperity(symboliticof marriage,procreation and restoring previous leaders or heroes past) as regenerative business as opposed to better business?Be-ta with ya for source in ijaw);regenerative business is a for profit(pro-fee-t/pro-fee-t with for profit meaning for gift as gi-ft(hue/you-fixture);a regenerative business as one that benefits all stakeholders respecting rights,working across ecosystems;defining better business as running a company with long-term perspective and inspired by high purpose minimizing ecological(air/err-co-logical) and so ial cost;origin of better business is traced to mid 1970though not immediately applied;creating a regenerative business and future(fee-you/hue-CHA);business as a wicked difficult problem to solve because of constant contradictions and changing requirements with environmental and social;profering learning from those who have come far in their better business as solution;the need to spot trends and re-envision business or company purpose and strategy;caring for the organization itself,it's business ecosystem and world or society;need to integrate into the core as an innovation for business be it leadership,society and world;respecting that we serve man and woman with disposable income and the planet and society as a whole;leaders(lee-da's) need a personal evolution journey;amongst others

It raises for me the question how one can care for an organisation or the one who organiser when for instance we are told regarding the legal profession which sustains the rule of law that "you can't pay a lawyer,a lawyer must pay others and pay himself".Would we not drown the organization ,in this case the lawyer except balanced where the ecosystem does not over labour the organization or the foundation mentally,socially and spiritually.

[Geoseph Zulu · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book offers a compelling and forward-thinking perspective on the intersection of business and sustainability. The book skilfully navigates the complex landscape of corporate responsibility, emphasizing how organizations can evolve to not only thrive in the present but also contribute positively to the future. Through a blend of real-world case studies, practical insights, and a holistic approach, the book underscores the urgency for businesses to align profit with purpose, environmental stewardship, and social impact. I highly recommend this book as an essential read for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in fostering a more sustainable and equitable future through responsible business practices.

Happy Reading

[Kae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a refreshing perspective on corporate leadership, urging business leaders to transcend organizational boundaries and embrace a wider sphere of influence. The book’s innovative model introduces the individual leader as a central figure with ethical responsibilities extending beyond the confines of their organization. Through compelling insights and practical advice, the author inspires readers to step out of their comfort zones and contribute meaningfully to their business ecosystem and society at large. This thought-provoking guide is a must-read for leaders seeking to make a lasting impact and leave a legacy beyond their own company.

[Benedict Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Discover the potential in doing well by doing good.'

Enlightening, featuring insights into sustainable businesses.
Preserving the environment while maintaining the necessary level of profitability, including effectiveness & efficiency, is the central topic.

Certainly, there are serious challenges that require a high degree of ingenuity and inventiveness.

Practical examples used throughout the book make it really well grounded and comprehensive, whereas the points discussed sound so valid and up-to-date.

Recommended to modern-day business people.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was a lot of information in this book. The writing had a friendly, enthusiastic tone, with some personal anecdotes, and while the writing was quite wordy, I felt all the information was presented in an accessible format, with clear sections and headings. I found it quite an interesting read, as there were some references to well-known brands and business. I think that may be of interest to readers, using examples that will be familiar. I think every brand or business has something that is unique, that helps to make it successful, and it was interesting to think about that.

[Quadri Oyerinde · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t read a lot of books about the types of businesses there are or how to create one. However, getting to understand that my business could in fact be doing a disservice to the planet earth and the damage our modern lifestyle has been doing to our planet.
The best part is that this book doesn’t just point out the errors of lots of businesses but also teaches how to create a business that preserves and serves the earth and its people while also make more money than doing otherwise. This book is an absolute germ!

I think every millennial entrepreneur should read it.

[Stavroula · Rating 4 out of 5]

"It helps us realise that
we often don’t move
until we have to—or until
we have a real crisis
on our hands"

[Olaleye Opeyemi · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a great read for those of us in the sustainability business. It encourages and opens our minds to opportunities that abound around us.

I love it.

[Veronica Fares · Rating 3 out of 5]

Better Business Better Future got to be one of my top business books now. As an economics student i found myself easily understanding everything mentioned. What to avoid when starting up a business? What differs a failed business from a successful one? I 100% will read it again. It felt like I was lowkey studying but I wasn’t because I was having fun reading it