5 Simple Strategies to become a Sustainable Business
As businesses and consumers are becoming more aware of their environmental impact, we’ve noticed a growing interest in sustainability in business. All companies, regardless of their size or annual income, can make simple sustainable swaps to improve their environmental footprint. From product materials and packaging to suppliers and distribution, there are endless opportunities to make your business or workplace more sustainable.
Before getting into our tips to green up your business, let’s clarify what is sustainability in business? According to Harvard Business School, sustainability in business means doing business without negatively impacting the environment, community, or society as a whole — and it addressing at least one of two main categories below:
- The effect business has on the environment
- The effect business has on society
When companies don’t assume responsibility for as to their environmental and societal impact, the opposite can happen, leading to issues like environmental degradation, inequality, and social injustice. That said, when it comes to implementing sustainability in your business, don’t let perfect be the enemy of the good: do what you can with the resources you have today, and seek to incorporate sustainability practices into your business model.
Here Are 5 Easy Ways To Make Your Business More Sustainable:
1. Set Long-Term Goals And Make A Plan
As the quote goes: a goal without a plan is just a wish. Conduct the business eco-audit as part of your sustainability strategy and review your current environmental impact with a fine-toothed comb, noting the areas where your business can improve. Make a long-term plan for your business or employer to utilize more sustainable business practices that will help reduce your impact moving forward. From switching to recycled paper or packaging to reevaluating your supply chain and product manufacturers, there’s always room for improvement!
2. Get Your Employees Involved
There’s strength in numbers, and the more people that are on board with your sustainability goals, the better! Get your employees involved by making them aware of your long-term sustainability goals and encouraging them to do their part to support them. From appointing a sustainability manager to implementing remote work days, incentivizing eco-friendly habits or even holding your own tree planting event, working together with your employees will help you achieve (or exceed) your sustainability goals!
3. Work With Green Businesses
It’s easy to get lost in the entrepreneurial shuffle and forget about the businesses that your own organization supports on a daily basis. Wherever possible, consider sustainable alternatives: can you source a local supplier, switch to an eco-friendly manufacturer or use renewable energy? What about simply using green cleaning products or compostable packaging? All of the little things make a difference, and while these swaps may seem small, they can add up to significant impact over time.