There’s no denying that waste poses a serious problem for the whole world. Research publications reveal that the world produces over 2 billion metric tons of municipal waste each year, and the proportion effectively managed is a little over 19 percent. According to the World Bank, the global solid waste volume will increase by more than a billion metric tons and you can probably guess the impact this will have if management efforts remain low. A sustainable friendly future lies in big and small efforts from all stakeholders and individuals. As such, your company’s commitment to environmental impact also matters. Here are some tips on how different industries can be more eco-friendly.
Offer sustainable packaging.
The call for sustainable packaging solutions has increased in recent years. More than 73 percent of today’s customers, especially millennials, would like to patronize sustainable brands if given a choice. Therefore, switching from single-use plastic packaging to sustainability-friendly choices like paper packaging is more than a great alternative; it’s imperative, and the benefits for increased patronage are endless.
Several types of packaging solutions exist for all company types, especially cosmetic and beauty brands. Many of them are increasingly adopting plant-based and sustainable cosmetic packaging, which is usually lightweight, high quality, and easy to customize to boost personalization efforts. According to insights from a McKinsey report, exploiting sustainability-friendly options in the packaging industry is a great way to reach new, younger and bankable clients.
Reuse and recycle goods.
Reusing and recycling at the business level is driven into corporate cultures and strategies, enabling employees to be more aware and responsible of their actions from waste generation to the garbage disposal stage. Recycling and reusing take several forms in companies depending on the industry. For instance, manufacturers using robust diesel engines usually focus on automotive waste oil. In contrast, light offices can focus on reusing cooking oil rather than leaving it to clog sink drains and produce foul odors at the office.
That being said, putting used oil to proper use raises several questions, like who can recycle cooking oil? and what feasible methods can we use? There are several answers to these questions, but enlisting an efficient oil recycling partner or joining its recycling program is a good start. Some companies convert all types of oil from vegetable oil to bacon grease, transforming them into biodiesel. Using such methods is a great way to protect the environment and generate revenue from your company.
Evaluate your carbon footprint periodically.
Moving towards zero waste requires your business to be more responsible with its actions and this includes measuring the carbon footprint and taking steps to keep carbon emissions low. Many businesses now use a carbon calculator in determining how far they are away from a net-zero mark on the carbon footprint reduction journey. Several options exist for businesses to achieve this. Generally, switching to renewable energy, reducing travel, or using a local supplier network all contribute to your carbon emission reduction plans. Becoming carbon neutral is an all-inclusive effort. Therefore, investing in sustainable projects in society and leveling the playing field for other brands to join the journey is also helpful.
Take the B corp route.
Becoming a certified B-corp is quite daunting. It involves rigorous attempts to complete the B Impact Assessment program, where authorities assess your supply chain, employment rights, and other areas of your business. The assessment ensures your company meets the highest social impact standards and environmental performance in every decision you make. B corporations put their waste to good use in several ways, including using glass bottles for their dispensers, sensitizing immediate community members and business stakeholders on making zero-waste-friendly choices, etc. Regardless of the rigorous process, becoming a B-corp is a bold move towards your company’s eco-friendly journey.
All in all, these tips will help you embark on an eco-friendly path as a business. Tagging along with other eco-friendly service providers and stakeholders is a great option.