Environmental Entrepreneurs

Business schools, once unlikely places for social responsibility, now attract students eager to make a positive impact through business. Andy Hoffman from the University of Michigan notes a shift towards students wanting to create startups addressing social and environmental issues. The Erb Institute offers a joint program for an MBA and a master's in environmental studies, fostering a new generation of business leaders who see business and environmental goals as complementary.

What has changed about the perception of business schools in terms of social responsibility?

• They are increasingly viewed as centers for positive global change.

• They have become less popular among students.

• They are now seen as places to avoid for social responsibility.

• They are now focused solely on profit-making.

What is a growing trend among business students regarding their career paths?

• Starting their own companies to tackle social and environmental issues.

• Avoiding business-related careers altogether.

• Focusing solely on financial gain.

• Joining large corporations to climb the corporate ladder.

What is the main focus of the Herb Institute at the University of Michigan?

• Training students exclusively in environmental science.

• Focusing on traditional business practices.

• Combining business and environmental studies to create change-makers.

• Offering courses in political science.

How do students at the Herb Institute view the relationship between business and environmental goals?

• As irrelevant to each other.

• As conflicting and incompatible.

• As a secondary concern to profit.

• As complementary and mutually beneficial.

What is the outcome for students who complete the Herb Institute program?

• They are guaranteed a job in a large corporation.

• They receive a certificate in environmental law.

• They earn an MBA and a master's in natural resources and environment.

• They receive a degree in political science.