Being sustainable is essential to consumers, investors and the Earth. Every business model differs, so the goals and approach will vary from others in the same industry. How can a company become an environmental ally?
Even though sustainability is vital, plenty of companies don’t take action because they’re unsure how to balance operations with an environmentally conscious approach. Only some can update their business model to have a positive impact, but minor changes can work just as well.
How to Approach Sustainable Change
Setting realistic expectations is a good starting point. Companies should consider sustainability a long-term investment and consider how it fits into their business model. Something that works for one may not work for the other.
Investors care about the Earth, so companies with more positive impacts often have better corporate market valuations on average. Stakeholders typically respond well to positive change. Spending time, money and resources to become an environmental ally can be financially beneficial.
How Your Company Can Be an Ally
Companies that want to become environmental allies should consider how their business models impact employees, consumers and the Earth.
Listen to Customers
Customers can give companies crucial insight into how they should approach sustainability. On top of being essential to business, they can offer critical feedback for green change. The social aspect of environmental justice is vital. Companies can use their platforms to amplify diversity and the voices of minority groups. Many have a strong online presence already because of marketing goals, so a large audience will likely receive the message.
Many people are on board with paying more for sustainability. Most feel the Earth is important, so it’s no surprise that around 66% of consumers will pay more for a sustainable business’s products. Companies can listen to them and respond with eco-friendly packaging or formulas.
Involve Employees
Everyone in the workplace can change an organization from the inside. A sustainable company culture encourages employees’ eco-friendly mindsets and creates attainable goals at every level. It’s up to leaders to drive change, but workers ensure it’s being carried out throughout the organization.
Becoming an environmental ally also reflects positively on worker productivity. People who work for sustainable companies experience increased morale and engagement because they feel their jobs have positive impacts. Encouraging their involvement can be beneficial for the organization as a whole.
Get Certified
Certifications are one of the best ways a company can prove its positive environmental impact. Most have lists of criteria to meet, so they require much time and effort. There are many different types for every industry and business model. Companies should look for agencies with experience and high standards. Meeting them might be challenging, but doing so shows consumers proof that a business is an environmental ally.
Source Responsibly
Eco-friendly materials and vendors are excellent ways to become an environmental ally. Most companies emit greenhouse gases during manufacturing or transportation processes. Only some have the resources to commit to carbon-neutral operations, but most can make minor changes. They can make their product greener, use renewable energy in production or plant trees to offset their emissions.
The change benefits the environment and reflects positively on the brand. Switching to sustainable methods may also make doing business more affordable for many companies. For example, recycling lowers material costs, while renewable energy reduces energy expenses. Responsibly sourcing may have a high initial cost but can pay off.
Become an Environmental Ally
The best approach to sustainability varies depending on the industry, business model and company size. Getting certified, involving employees, sourcing responsibly and listening to customers can apply to everyone. The specifics of becoming an environmental ally might differ, but the ultimate goal should be to benefit the Earth and its people.
