Businesses are gradually embarking upon a journey towards sustainability. They seek to improve the climate and environment of their operations in order to drive meaningful consumer change.
Small and large businesses alike have found Sustainable Goal Development (SDG), to be a powerful tool for their business. Companies that are committed to climate change have a higher level of interest from consumers. Investors also love the innovative technology helping businesses become greener and more ethical.
In just a few years, companies have been pushing boundaries and developing new tools and resources that can help businesses decrease their carbon footprint as well as ensuring they are more eco-conscious with their practices.
Recent data indicates that 67% companies in Deloitte’s survey have adopted more sustainable materials for their products.
Research and development from the Science Based Targets Initiative are also part of this effort.
Executives in various industries around the globe, from startups to large corporations, are starting to see the benefits of sustainable business practices. These practices not only help the planet but also keep them relevant in a highly competitive marketplace.
Startups and businesses need to be mindful of environmental policies. Making the right choice can bring up challenges. Knowing what to do is key to navigating these roads.
Tips to build a sustainable business model
Here’s a list of five things business people should do when building a sustainable and profitable business model.
Sustainability should be a Core Principle
If a company is to become more sustainable and ecologically conscious, the owners and managers must make an effort to include these efforts in their core business model.
Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel look at what others are doing and how it’s worked for them. Take the time to adapt and make sure that environmental and sustainable policies are included in the business plan.
These policies should be implemented across the business and employees, as well as new employees, are informed about the company’s commitment to ethical practices.
Create a realistic vision
It can seem impossible to achieve full-scale sustainability or net zero. But in the greater scheme of things, it may seem achievable for a small startup. Even for big corporations it’s not always possible within the first few year to go completely green.
Think about the green goals you wish to achieve. Next, make a plan to help your team reach them.
While there may be setbacks in the journey, they don’t have to stop you from achieving your goals.
Be mindful of the environment when planning
The environment is an important consideration when you plan for a new range of products or service offerings. Begin by reviewing the materials used in your products. Then, consider whether sustainable alternatives are available.
One way to start is to implement a remote or hybrid working arrangement to cut down on the commute to work. You may want to reduce costs by using less energy and less water, but you don’t know where to start.
There are many ways to find greener alternatives. However, the most important aspect is to evaluate how your efforts will benefit the business and help reach sustainability goals.
Look at how little changes can make such a difference
American workers print about 10,000 copies per year. This amount is per employee. If you take into account costs, businesses spend around $1,200 per person on printing.
This is not only a costly undertaking, but it can also be a wasteful one.
You can save time and money by printing less. You can change one small thing, but small changes make a difference over time.
Look around at other places in your office and business where you can make small improvements to improve your sustainability goals. It is important to consider areas where resources can always be used to the maximum extent without having to replace them.
Think About the Conscious Buyer
Consumers are increasingly aware of how companies operate in terms environmental transparency. Over the next decade, we will see more people supporting brands dedicated to improving the environment.
A study revealed that 66% of consumers would pay more if products purchased from sustainable brands. 81% believe that companies should be more proactive in pursuing sustainability goals.
This is one study among many that shows that consumers are becoming more conscious of the environment and taking control of their businesses.
Final word
Many businesses have the potential to make the environment more sustainable or connect with their sustainability goals. Consumers are now looking for more sustainable business practices in many parts of the value-chain. Small businesses could find this a driving force for their success.
Businesses of any size should look at how their operations impact the larger scheme of affairs. It is also important to examine how their current business model addresses the needs of the future consumer and how it can be improved.