Environmental and Organizational Strategic Issues
Virgin Group finds new ways to lead the airline industry on environmental issues. The airline's brand new fleet is one of the most fuel and carbon efficient fleets being operated in the world.
The Virgin Group has also plan to reinvest all profits from Virgin-transport related businesses to renewable fuels research and other "green" initiatives that combat climate change. Virgin's current environmental initiatives include: a fleet and flight path analysis program to collect and analyze fuel burn data; operational programs that reduce carbon emissions; employee-focused green incentive efforts; and use of green guidelines in various procurement and operations decisions.
On 9 February 2007, Richard Branson, the owner, announced a new Global science and technology prize-The Virgin Earth Challenge. This is done to encourage technological advancements that will promote sustainability and welfare of mankind.
The Virgin Earth Challenge will award $25 million to the individual or group who are able to demonstrate a commercially viable design which will result in the net removal of anthropogenic, atmospheric greenhouse gases each year for at least ten years without countervailing harmful effects.
The basic condition is the removal must have long term effects and contribute materially to the stability of the Earth's climate. Virgin's environmental and organizational strategies maybe branded as 'maverick' a bit radical even weird at times but are effective.
Their thrust to take into consideration sustainability in their business decisions is truly noble and remarkable. The company should continue in their commitment to engage investors, environmental groups and employees efforts toward the