National Business Initiative (NBI)

Chair 
Cas Coovadia

Managing Director
Joanne Yawitch

Background information

The National Business Initiative (NBI) is a voluntary group of leading national and multi-national companies, working together towards sustainable growth and development in South Africa through partnerships, practical programmes and policy engagement. The NBI members are also committed to demonstrating with substance responsible business leadership and action in shaping a sustainable future. This is achieved through evidence based experience and research in key areas and thus effects system change.

Since its establishment in 1995, the NBI has been an advocate for the collective role of business in support of a stable democracy, growing economy and healthy natural environment. As one of 60 something Global Partners to the WBCSD, the NBI provides a platform for business leadership and a vision of how companies can contribute to shaping and achieving a sustainable society.

The voluntary annual contributions of member companies are deployed to enhance sustainable growth and development through the identification of critical programmes and initiatives that require funding for analysis, research and implementation.

Activities
Thought Leadership and Advocacy focusing on the Role of Business in Society:

• A business vision of and critical pathways for a sustainable South Africa by 2050
• Doing business responsibly through a set of core values, tools and an integrated sustainability approach
• Focal point for the United Nations Global Compact in South Africa

Schooling and Skills Development

• Schooling and skills development as foundations for a sustainable future

Climate and Energy:

• Energy Efficiency
• Carbon Disclosure Project
• Water