Sustainable Business & Lifestyle Practices In The New Era
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By PAGE Editor
1. Anastasiia, as a scientist and a blogger could you tell us is sustainability still a priority theme for businesses and public? Today, sustainability is more than just a buzzword?
I am confident that sustainability has transformed from a trend into an essential part of life for both businesses and the public. I’ve come across studies showing that over 90% of G250 companies report on their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, which indicates that businesses see sustainability not just as a popular theme but as a critical component to remain competitive in the market.
The public, especially the younger generation, also expects brands to demonstrate significant social responsibility. Young people are now choosing companies with transparent ethics and a strong commitment to environmental impact. This process is growing because our planet is sending clear signals that it needs our care—anomalies in weather patterns, like snow in the deserts of Saudi Arabia or unprecedented events in Spain, remind both society and businesses that the environment and the planet must be prioritized.
What I appreciate most is that today, sustainability has become a driver of innovation. We’re seeing increased use of renewable energy, materials that can be recycled, and processes that minimize waste.
This is incredibly important to me. I can call myself an advocate for sustainable business since every business I’m involved with has a strong environmental component. This includes Glossary Organic Products, my organic product online store, as well as the Glossary Eco Foundation, an environmental foundation I established to raise ecological awareness among Ukrainians. And even within my family business, we prioritize renewable energy sources and eco-friendly practices.
2. What is ethical and social sustainable business philosophy in our digital age for you?
For me, an ethical and socially sustainable business philosophy in the digital age starts with understanding why this topic is so relevant today.
First, digital technologies have become indispensable in our lives, and while they drive progress, they also bring new ethical and sustainability challenges. The rapid advancement of digital tools and the increasing reliance on data create a need for new standards of transparency and accountability, especially around consumer data privacy.
Second, digital processes like data centers and cloud services have a significant environmental footprint, consuming vast amounts of energy. Without careful management, this will only grow, increasing the carbon footprint of digital infrastructure. To address this, businesses must commit to eco-friendly solutions, such as renewable energy, energy-efficient technologies, and minimizing digital waste.
Finally, society expects companies not only to deliver products and services but to have a positive impact on the world. Together, these factors form the foundation of ethical and sustainable practices in today’s business landscape. In my work, I strive to meet these standards and inspire others to do the same—creating a culture where every employee feels responsible for making a positive change and ensuring our digital age is aligned with sustainable values.
3. How companies can lead to a more sustainable future?
At the beginning of this year, I attended Davos, where discussions centered on how companies can lead toward a more sustainable future. It was interesting to see how the focus has evolved—not only on minimizing negative environmental and social impacts but also on creating a positive, regenerative effect for society and the environment through business activities. Today, any economic development must start with environmental sustainability at its core. Businesses should be drivers of positive change, developing solutions that address current challenges while also preventing future crises.
Companies can make this shift by embedding sustainability into every level of their operations and decision-making processes. First, they need to commit to reducing their environmental impact by adopting renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and minimizing waste. For example, companies can move to energy-efficient facilities, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and develop circular systems that reuse and recycle materials.
Second, businesses should prioritize transparency and accountability in their supply chains. This involves working with suppliers who share their commitment to sustainability, ensuring fair labor practices, and minimizing the environmental impact of production and logistics. Transparency builds consumer trust, especially as more people choose brands that align with their values.
Innovation also plays a key role. Companies can invest in research and development to create products and services that meet consumer needs while minimizing ecological impact. Whether through sustainable packaging, energy-efficient technology, or products that promote longer product lifecycles, innovation helps make sustainability a core part of a company’s offering.
Lastly, leading companies actively engage in educating and empowering both employees and customers on sustainability. They foster a culture of responsibility, encouraging sustainable practices among employees and informing customers on making eco-conscious choices. By inspiring and educating stakeholders, companies can drive broader social change toward sustainability, making this not only a corporate responsibility but a collective movement for a better future.
4. Investing in sustainability as a long-term strategy delivers high returns, do you agree? Let us know your thoughts. How to encourage business to follow these standards
Sustainable development is not just a responsibility — it is an opportunity for businesses to achieve remarkable success.
Take Patagonia, for instance. This brand has built a reputation as an environmentally responsible leader in fashion. We all know they invest significantly in recycling materials and supporting environmental initiatives. Are they successful? Absolutely. Their strong environmental values and high-quality products have united a large community of consumers who want to embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle and are willing to pay a premium for it. Over time, the number of such conscious consumers will continue to grow. Similarly, more businesses, including textile companies producing goods with full attention to working conditions and sustainable materials, will emerge and thrive. Consumers will increasingly vote with their wallets, valuing not only quality but also the principles a brand stands for.
Then there’s Tesla, which has made sustainability the core of its mission. In 2021, Tesla became the largest car company in the world by market capitalization. These examples across industries confirm that investing in sustainability as a long-term strategy indeed delivers high returns. Businesses that implement sustainable practices gain a competitive advantage, reduce costs, attract conscious consumers, and strengthen their brand image.
As for the second part of the question — how to encourage businesses to follow these standards — I believe the answer is multifaceted. First, governments need to create support programs, such as subsidies or tax benefits for sustainable companies. Second, consumers play a key role by choosing eco-friendly brands and creating demand for sustainable products. Third, developing clear standards and regulations can compel businesses to adopt sustainable practices. And finally, raising awareness among business leaders about the competitive advantages of sustainability is crucial.
This is a comprehensive process that requires collaboration and commitment from all sides. By working together, we can ensure that sustainability becomes a standard, not an exception.
5. Some large companies were forced to embrace sustainability agendas due to pressures from their consumers, media, shareholders and others, and some did so for the benefit of government lobbying or incentives. Your thoughts
I believe the transition to sustainable practices requires a comprehensive and balanced approach. To drive meaningful change, there must be a combination of incentives, benefits, and some degree of enforcement. However, this needs to be thoughtfully and responsibly structured. Simply demanding businesses to adopt sustainable practices without providing a clear framework or support will not lead to success.
Governments play a crucial role in regulating these processes and demonstrating their importance and necessity. They must create an environment where sustainability is both achievable and beneficial for businesses. After all, business is driven by profitability, and sustainability should be framed as a long-term investment rather than a short-term cost.
That said, there must be a balance. Profitability is essential for businesses, but when we think long-term, we also need to care for the future of our planet, our children, and future generations. Sustainability should not be seen as a burden but as a shared responsibility and an opportunity to build a better future. With the right combination of regulation, incentives, and accountability, we can ensure that businesses transition responsibly and effectively to sustainable practices.
6. Share more reasons why sustainability is beneficial for business (not just the environment).
The implementation of sustainable practices must always be approached thoughtfully and strategically. It’s not just about doing what’s trendy — it’s about finding genuine benefits for businesses and society alike. Let’s consider why sustainability can be so advantageous for companies.
First, sustainability naturally enhances a company’s reputation. It strengthens trust with consumers and builds a positive brand image. We’re already seeing how more and more people are choosing eco-conscious brands, and this trend is only growing. In particular, younger generations, such as Millennials and Gen Z, are actively supporting businesses with strong environmental and social values. This shift in consumer preferences shows that sustainability is no longer optional — it’s becoming a core expectation.
Reputation ties directly to another important benefit: customer loyalty. When a company demonstrates genuine commitment to sustainability, it attracts not just customers but loyal advocates. These aren’t just people buying products; they’re individuals aligning with the company’s values. This creates long-term relationships that drive repeat purchases and deeper engagement. After all, we’re all striving for that — for customers to keep coming back, to trust us, and to share our values.
Sustainable practices also bring significant operational advantages. They help businesses save costs by improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing resource use. For example, switching to renewable energy sources or adopting circular production processes can substantially lower operating costs over time. These efficiencies aren’t just good for the planet — they’re great for the bottom line.
For businesses seeking investments, sustainability is a game-changer. Investors are increasingly focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, and funds in this area are growing rapidly. Companies that align with these standards are more likely to attract responsible investment, which supports their growth and innovation. This trend underscores how sustainability isn’t just about doing the right thing — it’s also about unlocking new opportunities for funding and partnerships.
Regulatory compliance is another factor that can’t be ignored. Governments are tightening environmental standards, and companies that adopt sustainable practices are better equipped to navigate these regulations. This means avoiding fines, staying ahead of industry changes, and even gaining an edge in competitive markets with stricter rules.
It’s also important to consider the internal impact of sustainability. For many employees, working for a company that values sustainability creates a sense of pride and purpose. It unites teams and attracts talented professionals who want to be part of something meaningful. In today’s world, where personal values often influence career choices, this can be a major advantage for businesses.
Finally, sustainability drives innovation. It challenges companies to think differently about their products, services, and processes. This kind of thinking leads to new ideas, competitive advantages, and differentiation in the marketplace. Sustainability isn’t just a cost — it’s an investment in the future. Businesses that embrace it are better prepared for a world where environmental and social responsibility will be key drivers of success.
In the end, sustainability is about balance. It’s about finding ways to align profitability with responsibility, creating long-term value for businesses, their customers, and the planet. And when done thoughtfully, it’s a win for everyone.
7. Is technological innovation fundamental to driving sustainability? What else?
Of course, technological innovation is a powerful driver of sustainable development, but it must also be combined with education, policy, cultural changes, collective action, and leadership.
8. How consumer awareness drive the industry to follow sustainability standards. Consumers, investors and governmental agencies do care what the companies do\ don’t do, and cancel culture applies to them as well.
Consumer demand and expectations are a powerful tool that drives businesses to adapt to sustainability standards. If there is demand, there will be supply to meet it. When consumers actively monitor companies’ actions and vote with their wallets for conscious brands while boycotting those that neglect their responsibilities, it creates a strong incentive for change.
As a result, cancel culture has become part of the market mechanism. If a company faces criticism for unethical or environmentally harmful actions, it can seriously damage its reputation and financial performance. Investors are also increasingly paying attention to ESG aspects of businesses, while government agencies are introducing stricter regulations.
9. What do you think of ‘greenwashing’ nowadays?
Speculation on ecological values has unfortunately become a scourge of modern times. It deeply saddens me that large brands like Coca-Cola, Volkswagen, H&M, and Nestlé have been accused of such practices. However, the truth always comes to light, and it is important to remember this.
I believe greenwashing is dangerous not only for the environment but for businesses themselves. It erodes consumer trust, diverts attention from real solutions, and slows down progress. For this reason, I think companies bear significant responsibility for implementing genuine sustainable initiatives. At the same time, consumers and governments must play a key role in holding these companies accountable.
As a consumer, I strive to verify facts, support certified brands, and never hesitate to ask for more information. Greenwashing is a serious problem, and ecological responsibility is becoming increasingly critical. Businesses must not only avoid such practices but also build their operations on genuine values and transparency.
For the future of sustainability, it’s essential that businesses, governments, and individuals work together to foster trust and drive meaningful change.
10. How brand reputation connected with sustainability in EU (and in Ukraine, for example)
Brand reputation in the EU has become closely tied to sustainability. And while it’s hard to generalize, there is one clear trend: sustainability in the EU has become a central factor in shaping brand reputation. European consumers are well-informed and increasingly demand transparency and responsibility from companies. As a result, businesses have started paying more attention to sustainable practices.
In Ukraine, however, the connection between brand reputation and sustainability is just beginning to take shape. Fifteen years ago, when I founded Glossary Organic Products, a store specializing in eco-friendly goods, there was almost no understanding of what organic products were or why they mattered. At that time, I wasn’t just importing organic goods into Ukraine — I was also working to raise awareness. Awareness is what creates demand, and only then can producers respond with relevant offerings.
Additionally, if we talk about Ukraine today, the war has heightened the importance of energy independence and efficient resource use. For this reason, sustainable development has become a pressing topic for both businesses and consumers.
11. What do you think about education in the field? What governments on your opinion \ each person could and should do?
Thank you for this thoughtful question. I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on this topic, and I believe that both governments and individuals share a common responsibility: fostering ecological awareness within nations. The tools available to governments and individuals may differ, but the goal is the same — to ensure that people grow up and live with ecological values at their core.
On a governmental level, this should involve educational programs that start as early as kindergarten and continue through university. These programs need to teach about the climate, climate change, and an ecological lifestyle — why it is essential, what risks arise without it, and how to adopt sustainable behaviors. Governments should also ensure that ecological education reaches everyone, from educational institutions to industries, and engage with businesses to promote sustainable practices. For example, businesses with a strong environmental focus should receive incentives, encouraging others to follow their lead. This combination of education and economic stimulation can create a robust foundation for widespread ecological responsibility.
As for individuals, it’s vital that people not only recognize the importance of sustainability but also actively practice it. It’s not enough to believe in sorting waste, reducing clothing consumption, or supporting eco-initiatives—we must lead by example. Through our actions, we can pass these values and behaviors on to our children, shaping the next generation’s ecological consciousness.
This is precisely why I founded Glossary Eco Foundation. Its mission is to promote ecological education and sustainable living, showing how choosing eco-friendly options today has a long-term impact on the processes and climate that will shape the lives of our children, grandchildren, and future generations. Our projects are designed to have lasting effects on the environment, helping to build a future rooted in sustainability and care for the planet.
12. Do you think three ‘P’ would drive the business in the nearest future - people, planet and profit? Share your thoughts.
Absolutely, I fully agree and believe that in the near future, businesses that can find a balance between these three elements will not only survive but thrive. By focusing on people, businesses address the needs of their employees, customers, and society. Caring for the well-being of people is critically important for the long-term sustainability of a company.
As for the planet, today it is not just a moral necessity but a strategy for survival. Companies that fail to prioritize environmental responsibility risk falling behind in a world that increasingly values sustainability.
And, of course, profit remains a key factor. However, the 3P concept clearly shows that profitability does not contradict responsibility. On the contrary, it demonstrates how businesses can align these values to achieve both financial success and meaningful impact.
13. Which environmental practices you recommend for young entrepreneurs? And which we should all implements in our everyday life?
You know, this is a question I could easily answer with an eight-hour lecture. But let’s start with people and list some key practices. First and foremost, it’s about reducing consumption. Second, it’s about using reusable items, sorting waste, conserving resources, and supporting sustainable brands. And, of course, education, education, and more education. Pay attention to films and books that can teach you more about sustainable living.
When it comes to business, I want to be cautious with my response, as every business must approach sustainability in a very individual way. But on the surface, there are a few key practices I can highlight. The first is circularity in production — creating products that can be recycled, reused, or repaired. Then there’s packaging optimization or switching to eco-friendly packaging. Another is energy efficiency — using energy-saving technologies and renewable energy sources. Additionally, there’s the importance of locality — working more with local suppliers, which reduces transportation costs and supports the regional economy. And finally, waste management — integrating recycling at all stages of the business.
14. Name sustainability influencers inspiring you to do better.
There are many people from different fields who inspire me with their work, but today I would like to highlight those in the fashion industry. This is because the fashion industry is responsible for approximately 10% of global carbon emissions and is the second-largest consumer of water worldwide. While discussions about waste sorting have become widespread, conversations about mindful clothing consumption and creating sustainable wardrobes are still emerging. Addressing this issue is critical, as it affects not only the environment but also our overall approach to conscious living.
One person who inspires me deeply is Kristine McDivitt Tompkins, the former CEO of Patagonia. Together with her late husband, Doug Tompkins, she left behind a successful career to dedicate her life to protecting nature. They invested personal funds and protected over 800,000 hectares of land in South America, transforming these areas into national parks and giving them back to the public. Kristine’s vision goes beyond conservation—she focuses on ecosystem restoration and rewilding, reintroducing species like jaguars, condors, and anteaters to their natural habitats. Her belief that ‘the first step to saving nature is to rewild our own minds’ is something I find profoundly moving. Patagonia, as a brand, also set a global precedent for sustainable fashion by proving that environmental responsibility and business success can go hand in hand.
Another figure I deeply admire is Ksenia Schnaider, a Ukrainian designer who is recognized worldwide for her work in sustainable fashion. Her innovative designs, like her iconic demi-denims crafted from recycled denim, have garnered international acclaim. Ksenia’s commitment to upcycling and ethical production has set new standards in the fashion industry, showing that sustainability and style are not mutually exclusive.
There’s something extraordinary about the initiatives these women lead. They are not just examples of innovation in their respective fields but also reminders of how much change and inspiration women can bring to the world when they commit to meaningful causes. Their work encourages us to rethink not only what we consume but also how we live, leaving a lasting impact on both the planet and society.
15. Do you have any sustainable goals that you want to meet for the year? Personally and as a creative mind behind the Glossary Eco Foundation..
Yes, of course, I have sustainable goals that we aim to achieve in the coming year. The first goal involves the release of a series of eco-themed fairy tales for children. The second focuses on our project for energy-efficient schools, where we aim to equip educational institutions with solar panels to enhance their energy independence. We hope to expand these projects and scale them quickly, and we are actively seeking investors who are willing to partner with us to make this a reality.
The third goal is centered around educational initiatives, which we plan to implement in large numbers. These include online learning programs as well as various types of offline events that we will also organize.
16. Do you have any upcoming projects that you would like to share?
I would love to share the plans for my Glossary Eco Foundation, as we’re currently in the process of implementing several key projects. We’re seeking both financial support and informational partnerships to bring these initiatives to life.
The first project is installing solar power plants on the roofs of schools and kindergartens. The war in Ukraine has underscored the importance of energy independence, especially as certain areas face disruptions to education due to power shortages. Many schools have intermittent access to electricity, impacting both lighting and heating, which compromises the learning environment. Our goal is to make schools energy-independent, ensuring a stable educational process for children — our future. We’re currently working on a school in Ternopil Region, installing solar panels, and we aim to scale this project to reach many more schools. Given our family business experience with renewable energy, we have the expertise and a skilled team for solar installation. However, we’re actively seeking additional funding and informational support to expand this initiative.
Our second project is releasing a series of eco-themed children’s stories. Children are naturally drawn to captivating stories, so we’re creating a series that gently teaches them about the importance of caring for the environment. Each story combines adventure with a meaningful message. We’ve already written the first book, a mystery about a hare and his best friend, Stepan the hedgehog, who is under threat. The story introduces children to rare Ukrainian animals and explains the impact of human activity on ecosystems. Personally, I adore this hare, whose ears react to injustice. Whenever he sees something unfair happening in the forest, his ears start doing all sorts of unexpected things.
This project has a charitable dimension: part of the book’s release will go to family-type orphanages, libraries, and schools. In the future, we aim to translate the book into Braille and produce an audio version, making it accessible to a wider audience. And, of course, we are already planning the next book in the series.”
This combines the rich detail of your projects with an emphasis on the impact you aim to achieve. Let me know if you’d like further adjustments!
17. You use your platform to inform your audience about what we haven’t done for our planet yet. What is your advice for the younger generation of entrepreneurs wanting to make a change?
My advice is simple — don’t wait, act now. Don’t set overly ambitious goals for yourself right away. They are far less important than consistent, everyday actions. My recommendation is to focus on daily ecological practices and implement them step by step. This applies to both personal efforts and companies. There’s no need to try to transform your entire life or operations in the first month and achieve something that realistically takes a year. Be patient, but be persistent, determined, and consistent.
I firmly believe in day-to-day steps, and I see how passionate the younger generation is about environmental issues. I truly believe they can achieve incredible things and help make our planet safer and more sustainable.
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