Why should we embrace sustainability? To change the world

Why should we embrace sustainability?

Source:Freepik

What are the reasons that push companies to be sustainable?

Sustainability, Green Economy, Social Equity … all terms we hear more and more often, but do we really know what they mean?

In 1987 the World Commission on Environment and Development defined sustainable development as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

Usually, when we talk about sustainability and sustainable development, we refer to a new idea of ​​well-being capable of taking into account the quality of people’s lives. A concept that can be summarized with the three E’s of sustainability:

  • environment: responsible use of resources;
  • economics: ability to generate income and jobs, therefore efficiency and growth;
  • equity: the application of respecting and treating people’s rights and obligations fairly, regardless of their race or social class

These three pillars must not be seen as separate entities, but as a larger whole in which each part must interact to reach a truly fundamental goal for the proper functioning of each community.

Green Economy: a model of sustainable development

The Green Economy is an economic development model that evaluates a production activity not only on the basis of the benefits deriving from growth in economic terms but also of its environmental impact.

The UN Environment Programme has defined Green Economy as “one that results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities.” In its simplest expression, a Green Economy can be considered as one that is low in carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive.

After this brief introduction, let’s see why it is important to introduce the concept of sustainability within companies too.

 

These are the reasons why it is necessary to embrace a sustainable development

We have found that the main reason why we need sustainable development is undoubtedly environmental protection and this would also allow us to slow down the ongoing effects of climate change

 

Does this have beneficial health effects? The answer is yes because reducing air pollution means protecting collective health, effectively reducing the risk of disease.

But the concept of corporate sustainability is rapidly gaining a foothold in the market because the market itself is demanding it: an increasing number of consumers prefer to buy products and services from and stay loyal to companies committed to the environment.

But what are the other reasons why a company should focus on sustainability?

  • great brand reputation,
  • innovation,
  • an increase in people’s physical and mental well-being  which greatly affects  productivity,  employees’ loyalty and satisfaction in the workplace,
  • quality enhancement (product/service/supply chain),
  • greater possibility of employment due to new job creation,
  • financial benefits.

But how do we know if a company is truly sustainable?

Sustainability indicators for companies

Examples of sustainability indicators in a company are:

  • sorting and recycling waste,
  • reducing the formation of waste by focusing on the lifetime of products,
  • using technological progresses for the production of goods and services with the aim of improving efficiency
  • reducing the use of polluting fuels by choosing renewable energy sources (solar and photovoltaic panels)
  • reducing the emission of CO₂,
  • opting for eco-sustainable and recyclable materials both for products and their packaging,
  • the treatment of production waste,
  • “zero plastic” corporate programs,
  • sustainable logistics.

Actions Speak Louder Than Words: sustainability as an act of responsibility and commitment to make a difference

And to make this model of economic development work, it is essential that everyone (both citizens and companies) collaborates with each other. We should become aware of how our actions effect the environment and think about what each of us can do or do differently on a daily basis.

Essentially,  sustainable living is an act of responsibility and commitment that each of us can take on to protect and take of the environment for future generations.

The road ahead is certainly challenging, but if we choose it, we will really be able to change the world.

With our automated parking systems, we have already embraced a sustainable approach: find out how!