Professor Hansen represents a new generation of leaders for whom sustainability is not a workshop, an extra, or a ‘piece’ – it’s good business. His work on sustainable innovation is some of the most cited and used in the World today. Through his work at JKU’s Institute for Integrated Quality Design, Erik shows businesses how to drive maximum value from sustainable products, product-service blends, and new business models. Erik also leads the research for Germany’s national ‘Working Group for Circular Business Models’, a group dedicated to the successful implementation of sustainable business practices. His advice is followed by companies like Deutsche Telekom AG, Merck KgaA, and Porsche Holding to embed the practices that will future-proof their businesses for a generation.