How Corporate Sustainability & Environmental Compliance Shape the Future of Business

In this episode of Nexus at UCF, Natalie Broadhurst sits down with Michael Hewitt, former Director of Sustainability Programs at Publix and former Director of Environmental Affairs at La-Z-Boy, to explore corporate sustainability and environmental compliance and how it’s shaping the future of business. From navigating regulatory frameworks and corporate responsibility to leading large-scale sustainability initiatives at major organizations, this conversation dives deep into innovation, leadership, and the evolving role of environmental strategy in today’s corporate landscape.

With decades of experience in environmental affairs and service on boards such as Sustainable Florida and the Food Waste Reduction Alliance, Michael shares insights into how businesses can remain compliant while building long-term value through sustainability. Whether you're a business student, aspiring leader, or corporate professional, this episode offers a practical look at how environmental responsibility intersects with profitability and strategy.

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 Teaser

00:35 Welcome to Nexus + Meet Michael Hewitt

01:38 Michael's Start in Environmental Compliance

05:18 Corporate Sustainability and Environmental Compliance: Defined & Elaborated

07:27 The Damage Non-Compliance with Environmental Regulations can do

10:51 The Consequences Toward the Bottom Line (Regarding Non-Compliance)

13:25 How the Mindset Pertaining to Environmental Compliance has Shifted through time

16:16 How Chasing Sustainability can Help a Business

21:38 Consumers Want More than a Good Product

23:54 Detrimental Wasted Resources: Food and Water

27:59 Detrimental Wasted Resources: Water (Elaborated)

32:43 Success and Failure in Water Conservation

36:35 Beginning Stages of Implementing Rule about Sustainability

41:22 AI in the World of Environmental Compliance

44:42 Wrapping up: Doing Sustainability Right

46:02 Outro: Thank you for Listening!

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