Why It Is Essential For Your Business To Become More Sustainable

Environmental sustainability and climate change are becoming increasingly more important in society. The UK government is set to bring forward its target for reducing emissions by almost 15 years, with a mission to reduce 78% of carbon emissions by 2035. Businesses now can’t afford to put sustainability at the heart of their business practices.

Limiting the effects of climate change is a collective effort and businesses that haven’t attempted to run their business with the environment in mind are already behind the curve. However, by going green, businesses are likely to see a positive impact on their business as a whole.

1. Improves Brand Image/Enhanced Reputation

   Businesses must become greener not only so that customers choose your product over someone else’s but most importantly because it is the right thing to do for the environment and future generations. Customers will view sustainability as a benefit - and going green shows that you don’t just care about profit.

2. Improve Staff Retention & Recruitment

   An improvement in the brand image can also help retain employees and attract new ones. Many employees, particularly the younger generation who have been brought up more aware of climate issues are seeking to join workplaces that are ethically, morally and environmentally “doing the right thing” with professional services company PwC finding that 65% of people want to work for an organisation with a strong social conscience.

3. Reduced Costs

   Cutting energy consumption reduces your emissions and increase efficiency through conserving resources and reducing operational costs. Examples include using more efficient lighting and re-using existing materials which over time can save you money.

   By focusing on your sustainable goals and strategy, you will comply with regulations avoiding non-compliance costs and meet the criteria for reductions in environmental taxes such as the climate change levy.

4. Competitive Advantage

   To stay competitive, businesses must act now to retain a loyal customer base. As younger generations are brought up with rising awareness of sustainability they will look to give their custom to companies who reflect their values. Getting to know this segment of customers will give you an edge over other businesses when marketing.

5. Better For The Environment

   The main reason you should move to more sustainable practices as a business is that it’s better for the environment. Everyone has a part to play in protecting our environment as an individual, business and nation. Without immediate action now, we will face harsh consequences in the future.

What Can Businesses do to become more sustainable?

Energy Audit - This includes evaluating every one of your buildings for opportunities to improve sustainability through things such as insulation, energy-efficient lighting and heating.

Recycling - Businesses should be recycling waste, providing enough bins that are labelled to ensure the correct items go in the right bins.

Encourage Green Commuting - Green commuting can contribute greatly to your sustainability. Car sharing, cycling and taking public transport are all great examples of green commuting however, with the recent Coronavirus pandemic this may not be feasible for some people.

Going Digital - Despite how prevalent digital technology is today, many businesses still continue to stick to their old habits and waste unnecessary paper. Customers should be encouraged to move to paperless invoicing where necessary and applications such as google drive, Microsoft office & zoom should be used to their full extent to avoid using paper where possible.

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