Considering concerns regarding the state of our planet, world leader discussions at the COP26 summit outlined revolutionary steps for ways in which industries and businesses will have to operate to curb the damage that has already been done. As a result, businesses are taking on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies in pursuit of achieving baseline sustainability standards.
Such changes can be made by reviewing operational processes within a business and refining methods that can continue to sustain a company economically
whilst reducing its carbon footprint.
Tools and supplies
Giving attention to the everyday tools that we use within our business is one of the first, and largest steps to take. This can range from the number of disposable supplies utilised, such as paper, pens, and packaging, and non-disposable goods, such as office furniture, manual tools, and storage facilities.
Being conscious about the number of disposable supplies your business uses to operate can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. It is also worth considering the processes behind the non-disposable goods that are regularly used within your company. Many mass-produced products often include manufacturing processes that pollute the environment, so searching for sustainably produced tools and furniture for your workers may be the difference your business needs to offset its carbon footprint.
E-Waste Management
As we further embrace technological advancements, there is a continuous proliferation of digitally centred businesses. Although such processes may seem to produce less waste from tangible products containing packaging and carbon-emitting manufacturing processes, this doesn’t necessarily account for discarded electronic products such as computers and laptops, otherwise referred to as E-waste. In some cases, E-waste can often be of greater environmental threat as they contain toxic chemicals such as mercury and cadmium which can have detrimental effects on air quality, soil, and, subsequently, the ecosystem.
As such, businesses must think carefully about their E-waste management. Putting measures into practice whereby electronics are recycled or repurposed or partnering with organisations such as Stone Group which specialise in refurbishment and correct disposal of electronic goods.
Carbon Credits
Carbon credits are purchased by businesses to compensate for any carbon emissions that cannot be emitted. The process works by investing in one
carbon credit per tonne of C02 which the intention of offsetting any carbon emitted via sustainable land use. Examples of carbon credit usage include the re-building
of ecosystems, planting of woodland, and technology that can help with the omission of carbon emissions altogether.
Offsetting your unavoidable emissions with carbon credits is a fantastic way of making your business processes more sustainable whilst also helping the environment.
How sustainability can help your business
It is also important to realise that introducing greener practices can enhance the reputation and authority of your business. Showing transparency in your processes can help to demonstrate credibility as a company whilst standing out as a forward-thinking, and trustworthy business.
Sustainable practices are becoming more seemingly sort after and considered a desirable trait in many industries. Stakeholders will view greener practices as a positive association and build confidence in their investment whilst also adding value to your products and services.
Primarily, acting on the planet’s urgent need for environmental change is a strategy that can be capitalised on to increase brand equity whilst
appealing to all generations of audiences.
