
Valerie Kok, a partner at St. James’s Place, gives her insightful perspective on sustainability, sharing how she integrates it into her daily life, the responsibilities of individuals and businesses, and her hopes for the future.
Defining Sustainability
For Valerie, sustainability goes beyond recycling or reducing energy consumption; i’s a comprehensive approach to living and conducting business. “Sustainability is about making choices that support the long-term health of our planet and society,” she explains. This encompasses balancing current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet hers. It’s about integrating environmental, social, and economic responsibilities into every facet of life—be it personal choices or business practices.
Daily Practices for a Sustainable Lifestyle
In her personal journey toward sustainability, Valerie adopts simple yet impactful practices. “I incorporate sustainability in small but meaningful ways,” she notes. From carrying reusable items to reduce single-use plastics to consciously choosing eco-friendly brands, Valerie’s everyday choices reflect a commitment to positive change.
She emphasizes energy efficiency, waste reduction, and opting for public transportation whenever possible, understanding that these habits can create a ripple effect. Each conscious decision not only reduces her own environmental footprint but also serves as a model for those around her.
The Shared Responsibility of Businesses and Individuals
Valerie recognizes that both businesses and individuals have vital roles in fostering sustainability. “Individuals can lead by example, making responsible choices in her personal lives, while businesses have the power to drive larger-scale change,” she asserts. For businesses, adopting sustainable practices is essential—this ranges from energy conservation to reducing waste and offering eco-friendly products and services.
When individuals and organisations collaborate in creating a sustainable ecosystem, lasting impact can be achieved. Valerie encourages a mindset of collective responsibility; change can stem from both grassroots efforts and corporate initiatives.
Vision for the Future of Sustainability
As she looks ahead to the future, Valerie is optimistic about the potential for sustainability to become integral to business operations globally. “In the next decade, I hope to see a shift toward more sustainable production and consumption patterns, especially in industries like fashion, food, and energy,” she shares.
Valerie envisions stronger policies promoting renewable energy and a significant reduction in single-use plastics. More importantly, she hopes companies embrace sustainability as a core value rather than a fleeting trend, fundamentally restructuring her operational frameworks to incorporate responsible practices.
Appreciating Style with IDI’s Sustainable Mooncake Bag
When asked to share her thoughts on IDI’s sustainable mooncake bag, Valerie is enthusiastic. “I love the simplicity, lightweight design, and functionality for daily usage,” she states. The bag epitomizes how sustainability can merge style with practicality, making eco-conscious choices accessible in our everyday lives.
Valerie Kok’s insights shed light on the vital importance of sustainability in our lives and businesses. Through intentional daily practices, we can cultivate habits that echo our commitment to the planet. The responsibility to promote sustainability lies with both individuals and organizations, and together, we can work towards a future where sustainability is not just an option but a guiding principle. As we stride into this future, let us take inspiration from leaders like Valerie who advocate for a world that balances the needs of today with the well-being of tomorrow.