By its very nature, the natural products industry relies on the health of the environment, which currently faces serious threats in the wake of global climate change.

For example, new research from Ryerson University in Canada, appearing in Global Change Biology, linked rising water temperature to decreased production of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in algae, which may lead to cascading effects throughout the world’s ecosystems, culminating in an overall decline in the global availability of these important nutrients. The study predicted that a 2.5°C increase in water temperature will reduce EPA by 8.2% and DHA by 27.8% globally.

Meanwhile, industrial agriculture negatively impacts the environment, public health and rural communities, making it an unsustainable way to grow food over the long term. In fact, according to the 2016 Global Food Policy Report from the International Food Policy Research Institute, “The well-being of people and the planet will depend on creation of a food system that is more efficient, inclusive, climate-smart, sustainable, nutrition- and health-driven, and business-friendly.” Creating a global food system that operates for the well-being of people as well as the planet is a major challenge, the report said.

Businesses and corporations can and need to be part of the solution. As an industry focused on wellness, we are in a unique position to respond to climate change, which I consider to be the most important health crisis currently facing society because it directly affects the future habitability of the planet.

Ultimately, we only have one place to call home. If our kids and grandkids are going to have that luxury then we all need to play a role in correcting the unsustainable course we’ve been collectively stuck on for so long. 

That’s the broad, altruistic view. The business argument is simply that it’s smart for your bottom line too. If it’s not already, sustainability needs to be part of your company’s root system, and the DNA of your brand.

As deforestation, water shortages, sea level rise and intense natural disasters impact the communities around us, the idea of sustainability may eventually become a matter of survivability. Inaction, obstructionism and deniability cannot be allowed to trump truth, compassion and action.