Natalie Bellis, CEO of The Seventy Ninth Group, shares her experiences working in an emerging market in West Africa and the importance of sustainable investment. Sustainable investment, as defined by the OECD, involves economic, social, and environmental benefits outweighing costs. Bellis emphasizes that economic, social, and governance (ESG) goals are essential for business success and can help local communities build resilience against challenges like climate change and rapid urbanization.
In her work in the mining industry in Africa, Bellis highlights the need for positive disruption to drive sustainable growth and revolutionize the sector. She stresses the importance of making a positive impact on a grassroots level, focusing on local workers, communities, and the environment. By championing local issues, such as improving health and safety practices for artisanal miners, businesses can contribute to solving larger national problems and drive sustainable development.
Bellis recommends strategies for sustainable investment that focus on local issues, such as improving infrastructure, investing in technology and education, and promoting land reclamation. She also emphasizes the importance of climate finance in Africa, as the continent faces disproportionate impacts of climate change. By investing in green initiatives, public-private partnerships, and projects that promote sustainable business practices, businesses can support climate change resilience and adaptation in African communities.
Ultimately, sustainable investment is about improving the well-being and prospects of people, the resilience of their environment, and building a business that can adapt to changes beyond its control. Bellis believes that positive changes in Africa can have a ripple effect globally, especially when it comes to addressing climate change. Investing sustainably not only benefits local communities but also contributes to a more resilient and sustainable future for all. Bellis’s experiences in West Africa serve as a reminder of the importance of mindful, sustainable business practices in a global context.
