Nowadays, environmental awareness and responsibility have taken on much more importance among companies in the US and worldwide. Creating business sustainable strategies that help minimize damage to the planet and its ecosystems has become an almost never-ending task, establishing business models that promote committed and more environment-friendly consumption and, at the same time, generate a positive image in front of consumers and, thus, have a differentiating point among competitors.
But how can your company venture into this complicated world of sustainability without getting lost in regulations and laws? In this blog, we will reveal the vital strategies that your business can adopt to lead with environmental responsibility, always aligned with current laws. But first, you must understand some terms and definitions used in the world of sustainability. Join us on this fascinating journey towards a greener future!
What is business sustainability?
It is the strategy created by companies to reduce the negative environmental impact that is generated in their operations processes. These strategies aim to leave traditional business practices behind and begin to implement social, economic, and environmental policies that ensure the development of communities and their environmental well-being, minimizing any nature-harming practice, through the responsible use of our natural resources.
Examples of environmental sustainability strategies in companies
Circular Economy: To maintain a balance between development and sustainability, this production and consumption model encourages resource optimization, the consumption of raw materials, and the use of waste, which can be recycled and reused to create new products with a new purpose and functional life.
Benefits of Circular Economy
1. Protects the environment: By setting guidelines to minimize the generation of waste and protect natural resources. Reduce emissions.
2. Local economy: Benefits production models based on the reuse of waste and minimizes the import of raw materials.
3. More Jobs: Promotes the development of a new, more competitive industrial model, strengthening social responsibility and economic growth.
Energy resources: Energy consumption causes a significant environmental impact. But, how can we implement strategies to save energy? Currently, companies and society, in general, are becoming more aware of the need for alternatives and are working on the transition to solar and/or wind energy, which are renewable resources with very low environmental impact.
Sustainable Development Goals: In your sustainability plans, reviewing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) presented by the UN, is a must. Here you’ll find how the reduction of the environmental footprint can be achieved through different methods. An analysis must be carried out to identify which ones adapt to your business and how to approach their implementation.
Raise awareness among employees and consumers: They are the main promoting agents of better environmental practices. Create goals and commitments that encourage the care of natural resources, based on three R strategies (reduction, reuse and recycling).
How to encourage environmental responsibility strategies in companies?
We know that employing effective policies that help minimize the environmental impact generated in our companies, is non-negotiable in the long run. It is important to raise awareness among employees and communicate to them the need to meet these goals. Below, we will reference some simple steps that make a difference and bring great results.
Culture and sustainable consumption: The company is made up of its employees, who must comply with the environmental policies implemented and begin to change their habits. Raising awareness about the care of natural resources among each of them is a priority. An employee responsible for their consumption will be a leading spokesperson for these practices.
Water consumption and care. Water is one of our most important resources and, as such, it must be valued. One of the best practices is regulating its consumption, as well as looking for solutions that allow saving and/or reusing it. In addition, a process of changes must be initiated to avoid contamination with products harmful to health. Example: Detergent, oils, among other chemicals. Using natural products in general, is a great start.
Carbon footprint: It is an environmental metric that calculates the emissions of Greenhouse Gases (GHG), which are generated by companies and individuals. These gases are responsible for global warming and climate change.
Waste Recycling: Keep your space fresh and free of trash. Implement waste collection strategies effectively. Use specific bins that indicate what type of waste should be deposited, so they can be separated correctly. Make alliances with companies that are dedicated to recycling plastics, cardboard, glass, and even oils to guarantee that these materials will be reused.
Plastic reduction: Promote the use of reusable thermoses or cups and avoid excessive use of disposable plastic.
Minimize paper consumption: Reduce the use of paper and implement digital solutions with technological tools, such as the use of electronic invoices.
Manage your business responsibly: Start optimizing processes to consume fewer resources. If you handle hazardous waste, implement efficient methods for its disposal.
Community Projects: Participate in community projects that promote sustainability and social responsibility.
US Sustainable market in constant growth
If you want to cover a market in constant growth, start by including more sustainable products in your inventory. During 2023, 40% of people in the United States began a change in their consumption habits and looked for better options that reduce the negative impact on our environment.
What are the trends in these consumer habits changes?
• Consumers are increasingly looking for brands and/or companies that have clear sustainable policies.
• Consumers are currently leaning towards the use of recyclable as well as reusable packaging.
• Some studies reveal that consumers between 25 and 34 years old in the United States choose to make more sustainable purchases, focused on purchasing organic and local products.
• Most supermarket shoppers are opting for reusable bags or boxes.
Contact Universum
If you are thinking of starting a sustainable products business (or just want to implement sustainable solutions), do not hesitate to ask about our Point of Sales System (POS) services. We help you optimize your processes and organize all the information, you will be able to make your inventory, order products by expiration date so none of them go to waste, know how much you sell in real time, accept all types of transactions, and the best, all functions focused on providing your customer with a better experience.
If you want to learn more about our services and benefits, do not hesitate to contact our sales agents at +1-978-416-9964 or visit the website: www.universumsol.com
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