How to become a more sustainable business in 2021.

World Environment Day is on the 5th June and we believe that opting for a more sustainable approach to your business isn't just good for the planet but it can also work in cohesion with your built environment business’s brand reputation and bottom line. 

Research by Brother has shown people increasingly want to work for green companies, with three-quarters of workers at small to medium enterprises (SMEs) saying that sustainability is important to them. 

Here are 3 easy steps your business can take to improve your overall environmental impact.

1. Reduce Journeys

It is no coincidence emissions in London reduced by almost 60 per cent during the COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020. Working from home has been propelled into most built environment businesses as a result of the pandemic. By continuing to allow your employees to work from home this will reduce your businesses carbon footprint and research by The Carbon Trust has shown that by increasing the number of people working from home in the UK could save more than three million tonnes of carbon a year.

At concept Culture we are totally remote based meaning we significantly reduce our carbon footprint, reduce the need of electricity and have 0 office waste usage.

2. Upcycle and Recycle 

The majority of businesses already have recycling systems in place for paper and ink cartridges but to become a more sustainable brand your recycling will need to be taken up a notch or two. Sustainable businesses are choosing to furnish their offices with second hand furniture instead of buying brand new. 

When it comes to everyday recycling make sure it's as easy as possible for your employees. Place bins in all office and staff areas so that recycling doesn't become a chore. You can even buy recycling dividers for desk bins so staff can contribute to recycling efforts easily all day. By encouraging recycling in your workplace, it will soon develop into a workplace culture which is ideal when trying to become a more sustainable brand. 

3. Use Eco-friendly equipment

Using the right types of technology can help bring sustainability into the workplace. Installing sensors and automatic switches for lights so when areas are not in use the lights can be off saving electricity. The same can be implemented for heating and air conditioning to ensure they are off over evenings and weekends. Also making small changes to computers such as setting sleep modes on PC screens, utilising energy saving modes and decreasing brightness can make a difference. Making small incremental steps across your built environment business is one of the easiest ways to become a more sustainable brand.

Communicate your efforts

Once you have adopted positive changes to become a more sustainable brand these efforts should be communicated. Not only will this be great for your brand's image but it could also help drive the industry forward and encourage others to follow. 

Sustainability is not a quick fix or a one- time change it is an ongoing process and a constant evaluation of how you operate as a business. 

See here for more information on how to communicate sustainability.

Are you a built environment brand working hard for the good of people and the planet?

Do you want to learn more about the art of communicating sustainability and need some guidance?

Why not get in touch with us to discuss more with our marketing strategist.