Collaborative Connections through Sustainability

Even as increased attention brings it to the forefront of daily conversation, a concept as important as “sustainability” can feel too big to wrap our arms around as individuals. And indeed, helping industries reduce their environmental footprint without diminishing the services they offer is a complex challenge that requires focused teamwork – and innovative thinking.

This drive for collaboration is one of the key elements that drew Tracy Reiter to sustainability initiatives. As Vice president of Business Development, Planning and Marketing for Emerson’s Commercial & Residential Solutions business, Reiter saw firsthand the potential for technologies and experts to work together toward a more sustainable future.

“Sustainability is an exceptional opportunity for people with all different backgrounds and skill sets to get engaged and energized around a topic where Emerson has a significant role to play,” Reiter said. “We have an impressive presence as industry stewards and an ability to help our customers create lasting change. This is a relevant, common topic for all of us to really collaborate – not only to make Emerson stronger but to connect to our Purpose and Values and make the world around us better.”

As a global Environmental, Sustainability and Governance (ESG) leader for Emerson, Reiter works with employees worldwide who are focused on making an impact in this space. The team is generating awareness and identifying solutions to continue advancing ESG progress across Emerson’s many businesses. Through its Automation Solutions and Commercial & Residential Solutions businesses, Emerson is helping customers reach higher levels of performance – and achieve sustainability goals. This looks different across industries – such as leading comfort technologies that use more environmentally responsible refrigerants or turning food waste into renewable energy – but the cumulative impact adds up.

“Sustainability is a great connector across our two platforms,” Reiter said. “Whether you’re working in the cold chain business or out in the field with our power customers, we’re connected in helping the industries that we serve introduce technologies and processes to drive greater efficiency and overall sustainability.”

Through her role on the global committee and within Commercial & Residential Solutions, Reiter is helping to build out a framework to define the right level of oversight and connection across businesses.

“Raising awareness within the organization is crucial to keeping up momentum”, Reiter said. “This not only means talking to employees internally about the difference Emerson can make, but also about what solutions customers and key markets need to continue moving forward on this vital goal. “

Reiter encourages those who have been interested in learning how they can make an impact to raise their hands to see how they can get involved.

“Because this is such a broad topic, I think people should feel safe to start – no matter where they’re starting from,” Reiter said. “We all have something to contribute. I’m starting with just trying to drive levels of understanding and engagement around the topic, but we have people who are true experts and who are so inspiring to learn from. Their passion just radiates across the organization. This is an area where you can start from the ground level and make a difference, and that’s what is so energizing and attracting people in this topic.”