Practical Steps to Achieve Environmental Sustainability in Modern Business Operations

Environmental sustainability is a growing concern in today’s fast-emerging business environment. The irreversible changes on our planet and climate due to business activities have an adverse impact on environment, society, and governance (ESG) metrics. Environmentally sustainable business refers to a business operation that does not compromise environmental protection and gives priority to the best interests of society and the ecosystem. 

Importance of environmental sustainability 

The importance of environmental sustainability is undeniable in any aspect of the present business world. According to NASA's recent research study, the emission of greenhouse gases is increasing the chances of global warming, and human activities since the 20th century are mainly responsible for climate change. If businesses do not take steps coming days and get involved in sustainability practices, the majority of species on earth will not survive after the 21st century. 

How can environmental sustainability be achieved? 

Businesses are taking responsibility for maintaining sustainable business practices by adopting the principle of the three R’s which are reduce, reuse, and recycle. Sustainable business practices work for the best interest of society and the ecosystem rather than solely focusing on profit maximization. 

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG): Businesses can ensure environmental sustainability by using carbon footprint calculators to estimate total carbon emissions in business activities, identifying major sources of carbon emission, and controlling emission rates according to GHG protocols. 

• Life cycle assessment (LCA): Implementation of LCA to measure the amount of emission in every stage of business operation starting from raw material procurement to final product delivery can be a vital initiative. 

• Implementation of EMS: Environmental management system monitors and reports environmental sustainability performance and helps to take preventive measures well in advance to control any activities that can potentially harm the economy, society and environment. 

• Optimization of the supply chain: Dynamic and efficient supply chains encourage reuse of waste and promote regenerative ecosystems. It helps in sustainable consumption and protects natural resources. 

• Reevaluation of CSR responsibility: If environmental sustainability is a global concern, then CSR is every business’s vision of ethical practice. By adopting eco-friendly practices in CSR activities, businesses can minimize environmental degradation and ensure sustainability. 

Environmentally sustainable practices are essential for every business organization to address the severe concern over climate change, resource depletion, or pollution. The sustainable and ethical practices will protect our environment for future generations. It ensuresthe  availability of sufficient natural resources by protecting social, environmental, and economic responsibilities. After the environmental awareness and understanding of its adverse side, investment in ESG assets has grown to USD 53 trillion by 2025 according to a recent research study. Companies are adopting sustainable practices to protect our planet and meeting the environmental regulatory protocols. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sustainable development? 

Sustainable development refers to any development that satisfies the needs without affecting adversely the best interests of society, the economy, and the environment.

What are the major threats to environmental sustainability?

Climate change, pollution, deforestation, and resource depletion are the major factors that affect environmental sustainability. 

What is ESG? 

ESG stands for environmental, social, and governance, which represent the three pillars of sustainability.