How do we achieve sustainable capitalism?

In an article published by CSRwire today, the state of our economy was discussed as well as methods to remedy it. In a study called The Phoenix Economy, it concluded that this is not a simple recession or double-dip varient, but a fundamental restructuring that may take decades to work through. The phoenix, who bursts into flames and rises from the ashes a new bird, is a good metaphor for the type of sustainable economy experts are proposing.

This type of economy is explained in the Manifesto for Sustainable Capitalism, written by former Vice President Al Gore and former Goldman Sachs investment banker David Blood. Gore and Blood argue that, “We are once again facing one of those rare turning points in history when dangerous challenges and limitless opportunities cry out for clear, long-term thinking”.

The authors recommend five key actions for sustainable capitalism. Some people argue that it’s strange an organization like Generation Investment Management is calling for the next item on the sustainability agenda, however because the focus is shifting to a global overhaul of capitalism this seems like the logical path for the next 20, 30, 40 or even 50 years.

What are your thoughts? Does The Phoenix Economy and Manifesto for Sustainable Capitalism make sense, and/or is it the best solution for the state of our economy? Can we afford to work on our economy for the next 50 years? Discuss!

Home Depot to hire 60,000 seasonal workers

CNNMoney.com reported today that Home Depot will hire 60,000 seasonal workers this month and next, in anticipation of a springtime rush for home improvement supplies. “Spring is our Christmas and (customer) traffic is at its highest during this season,” said Craig Menear, executive vice president for merchandising at Home Depot. Further, the retailer is adding new permanent full-time and part-time positions for the second year in a row.

Last week the U.S. Department of Labor reported that weekly jobless claims were at their lowest in 2.5 years, and the unemployment rate fell to 9% in January, from 9.4% in December.

Is this a sign that the job market is improving? How many of these seasonal jobs do you think Home Depot will be able to retain after the springtime rush? Does this give you hope for the turnaround of the economy? Discuss!

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