Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues are becoming increasingly important to companies of all sizes. Many investors and customers now interrogate the measures firms are taking to ensure they are operating in an ethically and environmentally responsible way.
While ESG covers many diverse issues, this article focuses on how to improve and communicate your brand’s sustainability credentials. By following the tips in this helpful guide, you should be able to operate your business in a more sustainable way, which will impress investors and customers, as well as bolster your company’s eco-ratings.
Conduct a Sustainability Audit
Before improving your brand’s sustainability credentials, you need an accurate snapshot of your progress to date. A sustainability (or ESG) audit takes a holistic approach to your company’s footprint, from energy consumption to customer communication. Often conducted annually, audits can be tailored to individual companies.
For example, smaller companies may focus on workplace sustainability efforts, like recycling and water conservation. With larger firms, the audit may extend to topics such as electrifying the vehicle fleet and supply chain sustainability. However you design your audit, make sure it’s detailed enough to offer a good starting point for creating and communicating positive changes.
Cast a Wide Net
When it comes to introducing changes to enhance your brand’s sustainability, it’s a good idea to start with the low-hanging fruit. For instance, it’s relatively easy to switch disposable cups and other single-use items to recyclable alternatives. Plus, there are also measures you can take to lower water and energy use.
Going further, your sustainability efforts can extend to forming partnerships with non-profits and start-ups that are focused on sustainability. You could even sponsor relevant events and activities that can boost your environmental credentials among the public. Use social media platforms and merchandise and branding companies such as Anthem Branding to ensure your business is consistently associated with making a positive difference to the planet.
Involve the Whole Team
A sustainability initiative is a great team-building strategy. From in-office recycling drives with rewards for hitting certain targets to companywide volunteering days clearing plastic waste from a local beach, there are lots of ideas that can boost your sustainability credentials while promoting employee cohesion.
If you don’t have a chief sustainability officer, consider appointing an informal sustainability leader among your staff and even set aside a small budget for team-wide activities. Invite your employees’ ideas and ensure everyone’s efforts are recognized and publicized. Your team will feel like they are making a real difference to the company and the environment – a win-win!
Communicate Your Efforts
With companies increasingly under the spotlight regarding their environmental footprint, be sure to take every opportunity to communicate your sustainability efforts – be they large or small – with social media being one of the top tried-and-tested methods of getting your business’s environmentally focused reputation out there.
Overall, social media is the ideal platform to let your customer base know about your environmental credentials. Not only does letting consumers know about your commitment to the planet offer a great way to re-engage customers, but it also provides an incentive for them to go even further and support your brand.
Indeed, if you continue to set a positive example, you can become a sustainability leader in your sector or niche and become known for caring as much about the environment as for your bottom line.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating sustainability into your brand values can enhance your reputation and help you build trust with your existing and potential customers. With the spread of ESG rules and regulations, ensuring you have an effective sustainability strategy in place can also help your business remain viable as the scrutiny of brands’ environmental credentials intensifies.