Sustainability is one of those words that seems to be everywhere right now. So many different companies are talking about committing to it, but how many are making good on that promise? It is easy enough to understand the basic principles of why sustainability is important, especially in this period as the impact of climate change is so obvious and alarming. But committing to sustainability goes far beyond saying that you are going to reduce carbon emissions. Sustainability covers finance as well as your green policy after all.
As we head into the summer, it is going to be more important than ever for business leaders and owners to commit to sustainability as a practice and not just agree that it is a good idea. The global reasons for doing this should be obvious, but it is even more immediate than that. To start with, customers are savvier about being able to tell when companies are spinning a line as opposed to committing to change. Given that people everywhere are restricting their spending, this should be a good enough reason. But understanding the importance of sustainability will also allow you to stay ahead of your competition.
Create A Green Environment In The Office
When it comes to sustainability, the best place to start is with your environmental strategy. We have all seen the news reports about climate change, and with soaring temperatures and extreme weather events dominating the headlines, there is a huge amount of pressure on businesses to demonstrate that they are taking this issue seriously. The good news is that there are a huge number of things that you can do which will seriously cut down on your carbon footprint.
The first, and easiest, place to start is with the office. Make sure that you are providing your employees and colleagues with plenty of clearly marked recycle bins and look for ways that you can cut down on waste. For example, think about donating used electrical equipment to charity shops or local institutions if it still works, and pay for it to be properly recycled if not. Try to cut down on the amount of non-recyclable materials in the office.
Educate Yourself On The Best Path Forward
One of the most important things to remember when it comes to sustainability is that there is always going to be more you can learn. The landscape is changing so quickly right now, and the truth is that a lot of the wisdom that you may have picked up in the last few years may no longer be accurate. When it comes to sustainable finance, there are so many different complex issues to consider, and the best way to ensure that you have a firm grasp on the forces driving these major changes is by taking an online course. A sustainable finance course will give you the skills you need to harness sustainable finance initiatives and create real positive change in your organisation.
Look At Your Business Partners
As a business owner, you know that there are many different factors that go into the decision-making process about who you do business with. You want to know that you are working with a company that is reliable, honest, and offers a mutually beneficial partnership. However, as we strive for greater sustainability, one of the most important factors to look at is environmental responsibility. Talk to the companies that you work with about the steps that they are taking to cut down on their own carbon footprint and energy waste. If you outsource your packaging and delivery, for example, find out if they are using recycled and recyclable materials. Talk to them about how they are going to offset the carbon emissions they create and think about what projects you could work on together. If you are working with overseas businesses, you may need to work a little harder to find out if their standards and practices are the same as you would expect.
Engage Your Employees And Customers
It is hardly a secret that the climate crisis is an issue that affects every single person on this planet. What we mean by that is that your team members are going to be just as determined to build a brighter, more sustainable future as you are. So, include them in your brainstorming process for how to make your company more sustainable. Think about whether giving up the office would make a significant impact on your carbon footprint. If not, think about how you can encourage your team to use public transport or walk or cycle to work to do your part in tackling the serious air pollution issue. Look at local green charities and initiatives in your area and think about using them for team-building exercises. Do not be afraid to share this activity on social media and on your website blog.