Going green is no longer a matter of brand reputation, it is a matter of survival. Around 92% of consumers say they are more likely to trust an eco-friendly or socially conscious brand, reports Forbes. INC reports, meanwhile, that around 66% of consumers across the world are willing to pay more for sustainable goods. Companies that go the extra mile to fully commit to reducing, nullifying, or aiming for a negative carbon footprint are standing ahead of their competitors and are well-positioned to transition into the post-pandemic future. What characteristics do truly sustainable companies have in common?
Purposeful, Measurable Goals
Companies should set sustainability goals that tap into their key competencies and enable them to make a meaningful contribution to the fight against global warming. A good example of a customized, purposeful goal is that of Huawei, which has been actively pushing new tech advances to reduce digital equality throughout the world. Another is Nike, which has aligned itself to Goal 12 of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (that of sustainable consumption and production). Nike is moving towards zero carbon and zero waste through measures such as an increase in the amount of recycled waste used in their products.
A Committed Leadership Team
Leaders are not only the main decision-makers of a company but also the individuals who motivate, set the tone, and determine the corporate culture of their organizations. Lofty sustainability goals mean nothing without leaders who are committed to making a change and making the right financial and HR investments. Leaders require sustainability training so they can learn to identify aspects such as hidden sources of material and energy wastage. They should additionally have a professional sustainability audit conducted so they can set goals and measure them, publishing their results openly as a sign of commitment.
Green Cleaning Practices
The average set of commercial and home cleaning products contain a wealth of toxins, so much so they are considered one of the main causes of indoor pollution. Green cleaning is a smart decision because it protects staff health but also cleans your surfaces, air, and fabrics effectively. It promotes waste minimization and management. With less waste to handle, there is also less to clean. Green cleaning not only involves using steam vacuums and other non-chemical means of cleaning, but also the adoption of small but effective measures. For instance, through the installation of entry matting in the reception, you can minimize the volume of contaminants that are spread around the premises.
The Use of Renewable Energies
The average commercial property owner in the US can reduce overall energy costs by 75% by relying on solar energy. Businesses can tap into this saving potential by either renting sustainable premises or installing solar panels in company-owned installations. In addition to reduced energy bills, companies can benefit by avoiding electricity price fluctuations, pairing renewable energy with green appliances, and even selling excess energy to the grid.
Going green involves various measures that a committed company should take. These include setting purposeful and measurable goals, hiring a committed leadership team, and making the switch to solar energy. Green cleaning practices, meanwhile, are a key example of how leveraging technology can help a company reduce waste.
