Business leaders hold an extraordinary power to influence positive change. Companies have a responsibility to foster environmental sustainability in order to ensure that generations to come can thrive. Whilst this responsibility is huge, it is worth noting that even small changes can have a huge ripple effect and that the positive impact of helping the environment extends far beyond what may be immediately visible.
‘Business as usual’ is a thing of the past and B Corp is here to help carve a new, sustainable future where businesses, humans and all the wonders of nature thrive.
B Corp and the Environment
Environmental management is a key component of the B Impact Assessment. A businesses’ impact on the air, climate, water, land and biodiversity are analysed. Those businesses that are built on models designed to not only protect but restore the environment are particularly rewarded through the impact business model system – this would include, for example, companies that create renewable energy, educate on environmental conservation or reduce toxins through organic products.
The process of completing the B Impact Assessment means that questions are answered that may not have been considered before, thus creating an opportunity for discussion and planning for the future. There will no doubt be plenty your business can do that has simply not been considered before. For those that become B Corp Certified the annual imapct reporting and drive for continuous improvement helps to keep the focus and forward movement.
Include as many team members as you can in any discussion. Innovation does not stop with those at the top! Anyone, no matter their role, has an important part to play and if their voices are not given space to be heard then you may miss out on some fantastic forward thinking ideas.
Practical Steps Businesses Can Take
Measure energy, water and waste: What you do not measure cannot be changed. Set realistic reduction targets, methods for reaching the targets and share them company wide.
Reduce, reuse, recycle: Promote a culture of reduction. Reuse what is available rather than purchasing new. Recycle wherever possible whilst being mindful that recycling is resource intensive and not without issue.
Sustainable Sourcing: Partner with local suppliers who prioritise sustainability. Ensure raw materials are sourced responsibly and consider the environmental impact of your supply chain.
Ethical Banking: This is one of the most impactful changes you can make, look at Bank Green or Make My Money Matter for more information.
Employee Engagement: Educate and engage employees on sustainability issues. Create green teams and involve staff in the development and implementation of sustainability initiatives. Allow every person to have a voice.
Community Involvement: Support local environmental projects and partner with non-profits dedicated to conservation. Engage in activities like tree planting, clean-up drives, and habitat restoration.
Create a wildlife area: Consider if you can install a pond, a pollinator garden or bird feeders. This will foster a sense of connection to nature and you may be surprised at what makes it way in even a short space of time. As an added bonus feeling connected to nature can have a huge boost to mental wellbeing, leading to a happier, healthier workforce.
Transparent Reporting: Regularly report on sustainability goals and progress. Transparency builds trust and shows stakeholders that the company is committed to environmental responsibility. Do not be afraid to be upfront about challenges you are facing – no businesses is perfect and it takes time to implement change.
A Call to Action: Restore Nature Now March
As we work towards creating a sustainable future, collective action is crucial. On the 22nd of June 2024, individuals and organisations from all walks of life will come together to advocate for policies and practices that protect and restore our natural world as part of the Restore Nature Now March. This march is part of a movement to demand urgent action from governments, businesses, and communities to prioritize nature conservation. By participating, you're not only showing your support for the environment but also signalling to the world that nature deserves our utmost care and respect.
Together, we can create a world where businesses thrive in harmony with nature, ensuring a prosperous and vibrant planet for generations to come.
Laura
p.s. All images are from Unsplash. What an absolutely beautiful, strange world we live in. Let's keep it that way.
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