Stirring It Up: How to Make Money and Save the World

by Gary Hirshberg

A true force for change, Gary Hirshberg has been at the forefront of movements working for environmental and social transformation for 30 years. From his early days as an educator and activist to his current position as President and CE-Yo of Stonyfield Farm, the world's largest organic yogurt company, Hirshberg's positive outlook has inspired thousands of people to recognize their ability to make the world a better place. In Stirring it Up , Hirshberg calls on individuals to realize their power to effect change in the marketplace - "the power of one" - while proving that environmental commitment makes for a healthier planet and a healthier bottom line. Drawing from his 25 years' experience growing Stonyfield Farm from a 7-cow start-up, as well as the examples of like-minded companies, such as Newman's Own, Patagonia, Wal-Mart and Timberland, Hirshberg presents stunning evidence that business not only can save the planet, but is able to simultaneously deliver higher growth and superior profits as well. Hirshberg illustrates his points with practical information and advice, as well as engaging anecdotes from what he calls `the bad old days' of his yogurt how a power outage left him milking cows by hand, how a dumpster fire revealed the need for better packaging, and his camel manure taste test challenge to a local shock jock. He also describes hands-on grassroots marketing strategies -- printing yogurt lids with provocative, politically charged messages, handing out thousands of free samples to subway commuters to thank them for using public transit, and devising the country's first organic vending machine -- explaining how these approaches make a much more powerful impact on consumers than traditional advertising. An inspiring book for business owners and managers as well as anyone interested in saving the environment, Stirring It Up demonstrates how companies can work to save the planet, while achieving greater profits and satisfaction, and how we can all use the power of conscious consumption to encourage green corporate behavior.

Genres: Business, Nonfiction, Food, Entrepreneurship, Audiobook, Nature, Sustainability

240 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2008

About the author

Gary Hirshberg is chairman, president and CEO of Stonyfield Farm, an organic yogurt producer, based in Londonderry, New Hampshire. He has been with the company since 1983.

Reviews

[Donny Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book about being profitable while still being responsible.

[Bruce · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would highly recommend reading this book.

Gary Hirshberg goes into great detail explaining how businesses can become more profitable by protecting the environment and promoting social justice. I agree with his idea that encouraging businesses to work sustainably is the best thing we can do to move towards a world which is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable. If a business can make more money by being socially responsible, why wouldn't they do this?

He gives great examples from many different businesses who are doing great things to reduce their environmental impact. The one thing I found a bit troublesome for me personally is that some of the examples he uses are from businesses such as Walmart which other people have brought to task for the things they have done wrong. He only talks about the ways in which they are moving forward without ever acknowledging the other areas where they need to improve. I guess it is a good thing that Walmart is trying to reduce their environmental impact and save energy and it should be encouraged, but I am still going to spend my money with other companies (like Hirshberg's Stonyfield Farm) which are not only working towards environmental sustainability, but also are interested in promoting a socially just world.

[Blair Conrad · Rating 5 out of 5]

A hopeful and uplifting book about Hirshberg and Stonyfield’s philosophies on organic farming, sustainability, environmental stewardship, and making money. Hirshberg tells, by way of targeted anecdotes, the story of Stonyfield yoghurt and the why and how of its rise. In addition, he gives overviews of the approaches that other environmentally-conscious companies are taking to reduce their impact on the world and just generally do good.

It’s a little shorter than it could’ve been – I’d’ve liked to see more details in some of the stories – and still left me confused about a point or two. For example, it’s not abundantly clear why Hirshberg prefers non-recyclable plastic containers (which are light) to traditional recyclable ones. Nevertheless, it passes the “Hippopottoman 5-Star Test” – while reading it, I kept yammering to my wife about the contents.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would liken this book to Extreme Home Makeover for big businesses going green. It made me a bit teary in the the-world-can-actually-change-if-we-all-just-work-together kind of way.

This book was written by the CE-Yo of Stonyfield Farm yogurt company. Since I actually buy this product on a fairly regular basis, it was great to know how much thought goes into their product and business.

The author makes a case for the idea that large businesses should to be the first to step up to the plate when it comes to going green. They simply have more money to invest, and in the end will get a much greater profit. That's the thing: going green is more expensive in the beginning, but much more profitable in the end.

You go, CE=Yo. Go green, I mean. :)

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found Hirshberg's tale of eco-minded business and the bottom line both entertaining and informative. There was information about the development of Stonyfield Farm (though not as much as in For Better or For Work: A Survival Guide for Entrepreneurs and Their Families), but the best part of this book was the profiles of other companies Hirshberg thinks are doing things right. Honest-T, the guys making worm-poop fertilizer, and New Belgium Brewery were my favorite profiles. I learned a lot about packaging issues, cows, and the importance of mission statements.

[Shion Hishida · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is really cool, and is great for people who want to help save the planet. The author, CE-Yo of Stonyfield Farm Gary Hirshberg, describes the challenges and successes of making a yogurt company that’s 110% committed to customer satisfaction and sustainability, and even shares the success stories of other companies who devoted themselves to saving the planet, like Walmart, Honest Tea, and Patagonia. From making yogurt with only organic ingredients for maximum satisfaction to reducing garbage in innovative ways, Gary Hirshberg shows that sustainability and “going green” aren’t just morally correct; they’re also profitable.

[Debbie is on Storygraph · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm slowly becoming convinced that green business can help save he world -- though not save the world entirely as Hirshberg seems to believe. My main criticism of green capitalism/business is that it ignores one of the problems at the root of the environmental crises: consumption. While I suppose it would be easier to change what people buy rather than how much, it is the second one that needs to be changed the most. Still, it was nice to see that there were viable and successful businesses out there that see more than just the monetary bottom line.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really, really enjoyed this book. I often find myself falling asleep when reading non-fiction books like this, but the way it was written, and perhaps most importantly, the message itself - kept me reading (with no falling asleep!). His message so accurately captures my feelings about our environment and gave me even more reasons to care and to do something about it. It was nice to see an accomplished business man make the case for why businesses need to do something about their impact on our world.

[Kirstin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This wasn't the most earth shattering or complex book, but I enjoyed it. I learned a bit about some key terms floating around out there in the food world, and this is certainly a feel good read. I have to say, as much as I want to like Stoneyfield farms after reading this, whole foods 365 is still just as good, and way cheaper. Brown Cow is even better, and also cheaper. In the end, driving to the bottom line (and the consumer's bottom line) is all that matters-- and that's what this book is all about.

[Hina · Rating 4 out of 5]

An eye opening look into what businesses have done and can do to be Eco friendly, sustainable & profitable. Although I don't believe everything the author (also the CEO and co founder) says, it's nice to see that not all businesses are run on the motto that profits matter above all else. He makes an excellent point that in all cases where he has tried to reduce and reuse, in the long run the corporation has boasted higher earnings. Ironically enough, i happened to have a carton of the stonyfield vanilla yogurt at home before I started this book and it's pretty tasty!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think we need more pro-environmental and pro-business books. This book illustrates how you can be a good company while making a profit. A good read, filled with information about other pro-environment companies. As an added bonus there are coupons in the back, so you probably could save enough money to get the book for free. Or you could be like me and never cut them out. It's your choice.

[Bruce Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not as much a book on how Stoneyfield became the world's leading producer of organic yogurt as a read on why organic makes sense from a profit and ecological standpoint.Gary Hirshberg informs and enlightens readers on companies such as Honest Tea that are also making a green difference through their best practicies on environmental stewardship. Ranks up there with Peter Hawken's The Ecology of Commerce on green business.

[Jennifer Sakash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring and optimistic, this books supports and succinctly describes my environmental beliefs. As a life-long resident of NH and long-time consumer of Stonyfield products, I was happy to learn more about the company and its sustainable practices. The only thing it didn't mention is that if you are lucky enough to live near Manchester, NH you can return any (clean) Stonyfield yogurt cup to its retail location near the airport.

[Jimcgold · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an amazing book. It increased my knowledge of how we are polluting the earth, and what as a business and an individual we can do to slow the destructive process. Many enviromentally conscious businesses are sited, as are their practices and philosophy. Worth supporting. Highly recommended

[Barbara Hamel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Until I read this book, I was resistant to the idea of recycling and global warming with no real desire to own my own business. However, after reading this book, I wanted to start my own company with educating people on the idea of sustainability a primary goal. Hirschberg writes a persuasive book that I shockingly couldn't put down. Great book!

[John Chronakis · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice read about ecologically forward-thinking business. The author provides many examples from his own personal career, both high ups and down lows. It does sound like an ideal happenstance, but in any case it's a nice starting point for all well meaning businessmen.

[Jacqueline Manchester · Rating 3 out of 5]

Business Ethics Bk 2! If you are interested in the organic food industry or the shift towards more sustainable business practices, this is the book for you!

[Seemy · Rating 2 out of 5]

im really struggling to finish this book, and at the time of writing this review am about 3/5s through, but even a bad book I always try to finish it to least learn something from it...but this is boring and just a bit crap to be frank

Applicable to big level businesses vs the average biz owner, as all the case studies keep referring to ...like brands and businesses like walmart...timberland..etc

i honestly dont see the point of this book..it popped up as a recommended book on one of my purchases on amazon and i thought what the heck lets check it out - but even if am perhaps the wrong audience for this book, i still think the audience it was or is intended for isn't given justice, with very vague scratching of the surface and general overview of the goodness of going green, but again how the average reader would relate or even need this info im not sure

on a personal note and opinion, when it comes to climate change this authors NAIVE outlook of how big business and corporations 'can do more' for our planet and listen to Al Gore's BS and propaganda should really take a closer look that guys very own 'big business and corporations' - research the lies and truth behind climate change, and follow real alternative media that covers all the facts - my preference - infowars.com

as always thats my 2 cents, as a dscilaimer i havent finished the book at the time of writing this review, however, if i have anything to add (in a positive light) i'll come back and do so if i do finish this book, otherwise my review stands as my 'final answer' lol

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[Mehve Yuro · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good read, and if I could give this a 3.5 I would, but sometimes there's a bit of dissonance between Hirshberg's praise of Walmart's efforts in organics, and the kind of labor ethics that he and his partner put in to starting their own business. I wish there had been a little more focus on the labor side as a whole.

While there were countless analogies about his and Sam Kaymen's development of the company, the book largely focuses on Stoneyfield's later efforts rather than the principles which started their work; the New Alchemy Institute is mentioned in some detail but given the fact that Hirshberg was its executive director at one point, this book leaves the reader wanting.

All this aside, in each chapter you will find fresh ideas for how to further improve the sustainability of your business, how corporate models can be reframed and retooled to improve the lives of supplier's as well as the general public, and where these kinds of ideas can go in the future. I have no doubt of Hirshberg's commitment to the principles he espouses (while simultaneously working through the stark realities of American capitalism) and definitely plan to read his other work in the future.

[Bistra Ivanova · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ако в началото беше много интересна, с напредване броя страници тази книга загуби инерцията си. Бизнес идеите на изпълнителния директор на най-голямата компания за био кисело мляко в света са много логични (вдъхновени от природата, която е една перфектно работеща система, в която няма отпадъци) и бизнесът със сигурност има много точки, върху които да мисли и много задачи, върху които да работи, само че всичките тези данни, цифри, изводи от десетките компании, дадени "за пример", ми дойдоха малко в повече. Иначе ядката е това - като част от природата да работим по нейните закони. Следват как, колко, защо и дали :-)

[Alyssa · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was essentially a series of case studies of ways businesses have been able to be profitable while still being smart in how they protect the earth. The Eco-evangelism in the beginning wore on me, but eventually he toned it down. What's missing from his book is how to initiate this kind of change in a business mentality. Merely suggesting that businesses should do it and pointing to those that have, isn't quite enough to change a business mindset (though money does often do all the talking in a business setting). It was fun that the author is from NH and referenced a few places I knew of.

[Nancy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quick overview of several sustainable, organic, and green businesses, just shows what is possible in various industries. I think the common thread in all of them is a personal passion for the company, so it's inspiring in that way. I was a bit disappointed that there weren't more details, I guess. It just brushes the surface, like a TV special(think "How It's Made") would.

[Ben Donahower · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was energizing but pretty light on content. There were a number of case studies with a strong focus on Stonyfield, but they weren't very rigorous. This was a fun read for a businessperson or environmentalist but don't expect to come away with too many gems for changing the world through social entrepreneurship.

[Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book was entertaining for one evening on the couch. It confirmed my belief that it isn't all that hard to run a green company. I also discovered the beer I'll be drinking here in Colorado: New Belgium out of Fort Collins.

[Jon · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting book as the author is on our short list for our Rudin Lecture program. For anyone looking for a story about how "green" companies can make it, Gary's story about Stonyfield Farm is a good one.

[Steve Bivans · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good look at how one business, Stonyfield Yogurt, went organic, and helped to pioneer sustainable business practices. Also, they managed to make money. A very good model for new and old businesses alike. Read it.

[Nick Woodall · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good business book, especially for those just starting out to "green" their business. Lots of good stories and examples, some very inspiring. Book really makes the point that "greening" is really hard to do, especially the right way!

[Tara Dostalik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still reading, but has some wonderful environmental facts. Very much self-touting his success w/ Stoneyfield Farm.

[Cassandra Ogren · Rating 2 out of 5]

Worth a read, but he lost me when he referred to employees as "associates" and lauded Wal-Mart's energy-saving efforts.

[Sarah Sockit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring!