Decarbonization Doesn’t Mean Less Profit: Part 2

As the world grapples with the urgent need for decarbonization, the stakes are high, with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warning that we have less than a decade to prevent irreversible damage to our planet. Amid this crisis, a remarkable trend is emerging: businesses are proving that it’s possible to prioritize decarbonization and still turn a profit. One such company, Engie North America Inc., has seen a $30 billion increase in revenue since deciding to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy five years ago.

Businesses are proving that it’s possible to prioritize decarbonization and still turn a profit.

But how can businesses successfully navigate this transition and what does it mean for the future of the energy sector? These are the questions being explored in Part 2 of this episode of DisruptED, hosted by Ron Stefanski. Joining him is Kristen Fornes, VP Business Development at Engie North America Inc., who shares her insights on running a profitable sustainable business.

In this episode, they discuss:

• The economic incentives that can drive sustainable practices.
• The role of the public and nonprofit sectors in facilitating the transition to renewable energy.
• The challenges and opportunities in hiring talent for a rapidly evolving industry.

Listen to Part 1 here.

Kristen Fornes, originally from Dayton, Ohio, moved to Chicago in 2008 to pursue a finance degree at DePaul University. She began her career in energy sales and quickly moved up the ranks at Engie, a company that has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last five years. Engie has transitioned from being a fossil fuel giant to a leading player in renewable energy, demonstrating that it’s possible to run a profitable, sustainable business while contributing to the fight against climate change.