The Importance of Sustainability
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.
Six ways to make your business more sustainable
- 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 source
- Implement a Corporate Social Responsibility plan
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. Do something today!
