As a conscious business, this is how we define the "economy"
When thinking about the meaning of the word “economy”, many seem to focus solely on the monetary side of things. People tend to prioritize mundane questions such as “How can we make more money?”, “How can we generate sales?”, “Are we profitable enough?”...While, these are relevant issues, they don't capture the true nature of the economy.
At Istani, our values lead us to believe that the economy is much more than what we see at surface level. At Istani, we do not see it as a zero-sum game where one person's gain is another person's loss, and everything revolves around how much money YOU make. We believe that a thriving economic system benefits everyone, and that the well-being of people and the planet should always be set as a priority. As a conscious business, it is our mission to recognize the interconnectedness of all these elements and strive to operate and collaborate in a way that benefits all, equally.
So how do we define economy within the Istani Universe? Let’s break it down…
Sustainability and the economy
At the heart of our definition of the economy is the concept of sustainability. We believe that economic growth should not come at the expense of environmental degradation or social inequality. Instead, we envision a circular economy where resources are used efficiently, waste is minimized, and labor is compensated equitably.
Ethics and the economy
We also recognize the importance of ethical business practices. We believe that businesses have a responsibility to operate in a way that is transparent, accountable, and respectful of human rights. This means treating workers fairly, paying them a living wage, and providing safe and healthy working conditions. It also means being honest with customers and suppliers about our practices and the impact they have on society and the environment.
Society and the economy
All members of society should have a voice in economic decisions that affect them, whether it be through worker cooperatives, community-owned businesses, or other forms of democratic ownership and community control.
Our definition of the economy as a conscious business is one that prioritizes sustainability, ethics, and democracy. We believe that businesses have a crucial role to play in creating an economy that works for everyone, and we are committed to doing our part.
We hope that more businesses will join us in this effort, and that together we can create a more just, equitable, and sustainable future.
And even though we are far from perfect, we continue to reflect and grow. We are happy to have you on the journey with us.