Environmental sustainability is no longer optional; it is a necessity. Companies that fail to take proactive measures to address their environmental impact are not only jeopardising the planet's future, but also their own.
Impending carbon footprint disclosure legislation means that within the next few years, it’s likely that all businesses will need to report on their environmental impact. Waiting until the last minute to measure and disclose your environmental impact will have series negative consequences for your business.
Imagine this near-future scenario: the legislation requiring disclosure has passed, and you have less than a year to understand the requirements, gather the necessary data, learn how to calculate a footprint, and report it accurately. Even if you plan to hire an external consultant or company to do it for you, they will be in high demand, and by the time disclosure is mandatory, it will be a significant financial expense.
But let's say you do manage to scramble and get your footprint measured and reported. Unfortunately, your emissions are much higher compared to your competitors who have been working on their sustainability for the past few years. Now, everyone can see it, and your reputation suffers. Your customers and stakeholders demand that you work to cut your emissions, but you don't know how. The environmental consultants you need are fully booked, and the ones you can find are incredibly expensive.
Pretty bad right? Well, the best thing about this near-future scenario is that it’s easily avoidable.
By taking action now and prioritising sustainability, your business can avoid the stress, expense, and reputational damage that comes with last-minute scrambling. Plus, it's not just about avoiding negative consequences. Prioritising sustainability can also provide significant benefits for your business, including increased efficiency, competitiveness, and brand reputation.
Fortunately, there are resources available to help businesses get started on their sustainability journey now. One such resource is our free sustainability assessment, which can provide valuable insights into your current sustainability practices and help identify areas for improvement.
So, ask yourself: is your business doing enough for the environment? Don't wait until it's too late. Take action now, and start your sustainability journey today.