HOW TO MAKE YOUR BUSINESS MORE SUSTAINABLE

The most oft-quoted definition of sustainability comes from the UN World Commission on Environment and Development: “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

To live a sustainable lifestyle, you should strive to have as little influence on the environment as possible while also attempting to replenish the resources you do use. We are now generating resources, using energy and producing waste at a rate that is not sustainable in the long term. This creates environmental issues including pollution and climate change, which impacts the environment and all living beings. You can lower your carbon footprint and help to address these challenges by making simple adjustments to your lifestyle and business.

Sustainability in business

The two main categories of sustainability in business is the effect the business has on the environment and the effect the business has on society. All companies have three different impacts; people, planet and profits. In order to run a sustainable business, these different areas all need to work together in symbiosis. These three different areas are often called the triple bottom line of corporate sustainability.

The purpose of a long term company plan is to have a beneficial impact on at least one of those areas, but preferably all of them. When businesses fail to accept responsibility, the results can be severe: environmental destruction, inequality, and social injustice are all possible outcomes. When making business decisions, a sustainable organization examines a wide range of environmental, economic and social factors. These companies also keep a careful eye on the impact of their operations to ensure that short term gains do not become long term liabilities.

Plan of action

Because they are tied to bigger corporate goals and organisational values, sustainable business strategies are unique to each organisation. Here are a few examples of minor changes that can make a significant difference.

Consumers are more likely to buy items, invest in services from and support businesses that have a proven track record of social responsibility in terms of lowering their environmental impact. According to research made by Futerra in 2018, 80% of consumers prefer to support firms and brands that have a long history of sustainability. Creating an ecologically conscious organisation starts with your employees, as it is critical for them to believe in your vision and follow environmentally-friendly behaviors in the workplace in order for your sustainability objective to be achieved. There are a number of simple and cost-effective steps your business can take to minimise its carbon footprint and impact on the environment.

Use environmentally friendly materials

Have reusable office supplies

Invest in the local community

Streamline the supply chain to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Use renewable energy sources

Implement a Corporate Social Responsibility plan

Here are six different sustainable projects you can put in place to encourage yourself and your staff to be environmentally mindful every day.

Recycle

Establishing a recycling program in your company is a common strategy to increase awareness around sustainability. Educate your employees on proper waste disposal by posting clear signage on designated waste stations to help them identify between what belongs in the recycling, compost, and trash bins.

Buy plants

Plants in the workplace can assist to enhance your workplaces, improve the overall ambiance, and reduce tension and anxiety among your employees. Indoor vegetation can help to increase oxygen levels while also removing contaminants like carbon dioxide and formaldehyde. According to NASA studies, indoor plants can eliminate 87 percent of indoor air pollutants in just 24 hours.

Save energy

Turning off the lights and electronic devices around the workplace during off-hours helps to conserve energy resources while also saving your business money on your electric bill. Ensure that your company's policy on minimising energy usage at their desks and around the office has been conveyed to employees, and offer advice like turning off computers at the end of the day and turning off lights when a meeting room is not in use. If you work for yourself this piece of advice can be just as applicable. Get outside and volunteer

Cause-driven volunteer programs are an excellent way to support something meaningful and have a big impact on your communities. There are all sorts of green causes and conservation campaigns your company can participate in. Find a philanthropic project that’s close to your organisation’s heart and get your people involved.

Promote a paperless office

Companies have grown more collaborative, streamlined, efficient, and yes, greener as a result of digital and cloud computing technologies. Paper and ink are being replaced with an ecofriendly alternative, from using desktop apps like Microsoft Office and Google Drive to investing in digital HR and payroll tools to manage workforce management.

Save human energy

Although it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about environmental practices, the well-being of your employees is critical to your company's healthy habits. The importance of mindfulness cannot be overstated. Consider how keeping your personnel healthy and energised will benefit your company's overall production. Establish a safe, non-toxic environment for your employees at all times to keep them happy and energised.

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