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Why sustainability is now an essential part of any business strategy, and not an option Choice is a fine thing when it comes to encouraging environmentally friendly shopping habits By VICTORIA BROCKLESBY OVER the past decade, there has been a fundamental shift in the way consumers choose between suppliers, brands and products. Today, shoppers want brands to help them be more environmentally friendly, according to Forbes, and 60 percent of global consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable goods. The trend for seeking out the eco-friendly option is set to rise, with 70 percent of Millennials saying they would choose a sustainable option over the alternative, according to an international poll by Nielson. This knowledge brings a
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Improving carbon footprint has enabled expansion new world of opportunity for savvy businesses to use their eco awareness as a means to rise above the competition. UK door and window manufacturer Origin is just one company whose focus on improving its carbon footprint
has positively impacted the tender process, helped to win big contracts, and is now a key part of annual reports. Danone, for example, is urging its customers to join the “food revolution” and adopt healthier, more sustainable eating and drinking habits. IKEA has more than 700,000 solar panels powering its stores, while Carlsberg is developing a range of beer “bottles” made from paper. Sustainability is a journey, not a destination; small changes can have the biggest impact. It’s an accumulation of small changes that make a significant difference. A useful starting point is to evaluate suppliers and select those
