by Victoria Kenrick, Specialist, Allen & York
Sustainability has become a mantra for the 21st century. It embodies the promise of societal and business evolution towards a more equitable and wealthy world in which the natural environment and our cultural and corporate achievements are aligned. Within a business context, sustainability can accordingly be defined as meeting the needs of a firm’s direct and indirect stakeholders, without compromising its ability to meet the needs of future stakeholders as well. Putting sustainability at the forefront of business has for many companies (The John Lewis Group, The Cooperative, Marks & Spencer) created a positive brand association and increased consumer interest, equating to financial buoyancy. Put simply, sustainability is good for business.
It’s also good for the planet. Global issues surrounding energy security, unstable fuel prices and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as sustainable procurement, the purchase of raw materials from sustainable sources, ethical trade and corporate social responsibility (CSR), has led to organizations increasingly making the commitment to move towards a more sustainable, low carbon, energy efficient model.
If energy and sustainability are managed in a strategic manner by one individual who delegates out responsibilities, then an organization is more easily able to present a clear and transparent sustainable strategy for the company as a whole.
Here are some questions any company looking to manage their energy and sustainability needs to answer:
- How much energy does the business currently use?
- How can you improve your energy efficiency?
- What impact would saving energy have on your business from a financial perspective?
- How do you source your materials?
- Are you using sustainable products and processes?
- What is your impact on the local and global community?
Read the complete article at Environmental Leader