FROM THE PEN
The Sustainability Issue
What an incredibly busy year we’ve had as a country and as SAICA. A successful hosting of the world cup, strikes and protests, a fairly well performing Rand, a bit of an economic upturn, reshuffling in our National Assembly cabinet, SAICA’s 30 year celebration, a strong focus on strategy and member delight within the organisation, significant leadership accolades among our members, and a renewed assurance that the CA(SA) indeed is the leading business designation in the country.
So it’s not surprising then that this issue is largely focused on sustainability, a thought leadership issue that SAICA has endeavoured to play a key role in, within our profession. And as you can well imagine, the issues related to sustainability are vast. In this special report our focus areas are integrated reporting and social responsibility initiatives. We also tackle the issues pertaining to ‘green’ building and dispel the myth that it’s an expensive alternative.
The reality is that almost every, if not all, aspects of our business and private lives has an effect on the environment. Whether that effect is positive or negative, whether the issues pertaining to our environment are urgent or not, being a responsible corporate citizen necessitates that we start making informed choices around what part we wish to play in this space.
We’ve clearly made up our minds, the challenge now is to you… the big corporate, SMPs, academia, and the individual… what role are you playing in this space?
While you ponder that, please help me congratulate Chantyl Mulder, SAICA’s Senior Executive: Transformation and Education, who has just received the Ellen Kuzwayo Award from the University of Johannesburg for her outstanding contribution in the area of transformation and education. Chantyl’s tireless work in this area within our profession is extensive and has resulted in huge strides being made to literally change the face of the profession.
And now, to all of you, our valued members, have a safe festive season, and see you back here in February 2011.
Raina