Taking a few small steps towards developing a sustainable business can deliver long term benefits for not only the environment, but also your business’s bottom line, contributing to your long term profitability and building customer loyalty. It can also help you win tenders and contracts, with sustainability increasingly becoming a focus and requirement of the tendering process.
We’ve identified five key areas of your business where you can improve your sustainability practices. These strategies can be integrated into your sustainability action plan, helping you to reduce costs, enhance your reputation and comply with environmental regulations.
Energy efficiency
Improving energy efficiency is one of the most effective ways to enhance sustainability while saving money. Reducing energy consumption lowers operating costs and decreases your carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Simple steps you could take include:
- upgrading to energy efficient lighting, such as LED lights, which significantly reduces energy consumption and electricity bills.
- maintaining your heating and cooling systems regularly to optimise their performance and ensure they are operating efficiently.
- installing programmable thermostats to control energy usage based on occupancy, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
- maximising natural light by utilising large windows and skylights, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
Waste reduction
One of the easiest and most impactful ways you can become more sustainable is by reducing waste. Simple, everyday changes can conserve valuable resources and lower disposal costs.
You could start by:
- implementing a comprehensive recycling program that includes paper, plastic, glass, and metal. Clearly label bins and educate your employees on what can be recycled.
- moving towards becoming a paperless office by transitioning to digital documents and filings. This not only reduces waste but also improves efficiency.
- composting organic waste like food scraps and coffee grounds and donating the compost to local community gardens. This reduces landfill waste while benefitting the local community.
Sustainable sourcing
Sustainable sourcing is another area where businesses can positively impact the environment. By carefully selecting suppliers and materials, businesses can reduce their environmental footprint and support ethical practices.
You could consider:
- choosing local suppliers reduces transportation emissions and supports the local economy. For example, a boutique clothing store could source items from local designers rather than importing them.
- opting for recycled or eco friendly materials whenever possible. An artisan craft shop could use recycled paper and natural dyes for their products.
- using ethical supply chains by working with suppliers who adhere to fair trade practices and environmentally friendly production methods. A coffee shop, for example, could source its beans from fair trade certified growers.
Water conservation and green building
Undertaking water conservation efforts is a simple and cost effective way to reach your sustainability objectives. There are a number of low cost measures you can take to reduce water usage, lower your expenses and conserve this essential resource.
Simple ways to conserve water include:
- installing low flow fixtures, such as toilets, taps, and showerheads, to reduces water usage without compromising performance.
- fixing leaks promptly to avoid unnecessary water wastage. An unexpected spike in your water bill may indicate a leak that should be addressed immediately.
- for businesses with outdoor spaces, using water efficient landscaping with drought resistant plants and efficient irrigation systems can minimise water use, while keeping your premises looking great.
Green building practices further enhance sustainability by improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. These practices include:
- using sustainable building materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled steel.
- designing the for passive solar heating and cooling, which reduces energy consumption.
- installing green roofs or solar panels, which provide insulation and renewable energy benefits.
- improving insulation to reduce the need for heating and cooling, leading to energy savings.
Engaging employees and community
Engaging employees and the community in your sustainability efforts ensures the success and longevity of your initiatives. Providing training and resources on sustainability empowers employees to contribute effectively.
You can encourage engagement by:
- creating a green team or sustainability committee to gather input and drive environmental initiatives.
- recognising and rewarding employees who contribute significantly to sustainability goals, such as introducing an "Eco Champion" award or offering workshops on sustainable practices.
- collaborating with other businesses to share best practices and work on sustainability projects. For example, you could form a local business sustainability alliance to collaborate on community initiatives.
- engaging customers encouraging the use of reusable items. A coffee shop might offer a discount to customers who bring their own cups.
Time to develop a sustainability action plan?
Developing a sustainability action plan is a great next step when you are looking to integrate sustainable practices into your business. The plan can act as a roadmap, outlining specific goals, strategies and timelines for reducing environmental impact.
Start by:
- assessing current practices and identifying areas for improvement
- setting achievable sustainability targets and establishing regular monitoring and reporting mechanisms to track progress.
- adjusting strategies as needed to ensure that sustainability efforts remain effective and aligned with your broader business objectives.
More information
- Learn how to get started on your climate reporting
- Access resources from the SME Climate Hub
- Stay up-to-date on WA’s single use plastic ban
- Read the stories of local businesses embracing sustainable practices:
