What is sustainable business and why does it matter? 

A sustainable business operates in a way that is environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable over the long term. This means it seeks to minimise its ecological footprint by using resources efficiently, reducing waste, and ensuring that its operations benefit the community and its workers. Sustainable businesses matter because they help combat climate change, promote fairness and equality, and foster economic resilience. By prioritising sustainability, these businesses not only create a positive impact on the planet and society but also build a loyal customer base and can achieve long-term profitability.


​How does sustainability benefit businesses?
 
Sustainability benefits businesses by reducing costs, enhancing brand reputation, and attracting conscious consumers. By implementing sustainable practices, such as energy efficiency and waste reduction, companies can lower operational expenses. Additionally, businesses that prioritise sustainability often stand out in the market, gaining customer loyalty and trust. This approach can also open up new opportunities for innovation and partnerships, while helping to mitigate risks related to regulations and environmental impacts. Long-term profitability and resilience can also be achieved by adopting more sustainable practices.
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​How to become a sustainable business?

You can start by assessing your current practices and identifying areas for improvement. Implement energy-efficient measures, such as using LED lighting or renewable energy sources, to reduce your carbon footprint. Focus on minimising waste by recycling materials, reducing packaging, and encouraging a circular economy approach. Engage with suppliers and customers who share your sustainability values, fostering partnerships that prioritise ethical practices. Additionally, encourage employee involvement in sustainability initiatives through training and awareness programs. Finally, regularly monitor and report on your sustainability efforts to track progress and demonstrate transparency, helping to build trust with stakeholders.
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​How can I help you on this journey?
 
As a Chartered Environmentalist and Full Member of ISEP (the gold standard for sustainability professionals), I have spent the last seven years creating, developing, and also leading the sustainability journey of multiple organisations that range from large charities, tech startups, and global companies operating in the UK. This includes identifying their environmental impacts and stakeholder priorities, developing long-term commitments, organisational policies, and short-term strategies, and implementing relevant processes and initiatives that will support the delivery of objectives and targets.

Examples of this include starting the sustainability journey and reducing costs, emissions and energy usage by more than 10% YOY at Dogs Trust, achieving ISO 14001 accreditation and delivering on contract objectives for clients at Sodexo, and developing circular solutions while at Deliveroo.