An overview of the sustainability initiatives by brands
Our constant exploitation of our planet’s resources puts us in a position where we need to battle big issues like carbon emissions and global warming.
If we wish our kids to enjoy the beauties of our planet, we must find a better sustainable way of living. And just as consumers play their role through reduction of energy usage and waste recycling, eco-friendly businesses work hard to be part of the change as well.
Many companies shift priorities, and by using BI they not only do costs reduction but become environmentally conscious as well. The desire to grow into an eco-friendly business has turned many business decision-making processes upside down. Profit is no longer the number one target ‘at any cost’.
Businesses are changing
If you follow the sustainability topic closely, for sure you are already familiar with great brands examples. Here are just a few examples that are different yet worth mentioning.
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble’s sustainability efforts are focused on several areas, including water usage, packaging, waste, and CO2 emissions. In their Saudi Arabia factory, the water from their HVAC systems is collected and repurposed for irrigation and for filling fire water tanks. They are proud of the many products created by 100% wind electricity, plus the fact that up to 70% of P&G production sites do not send manufacturing waste to landfills.
IKEA
IKEA in 2020 made an offer to completely phase out single-use packaging. Additionally, they made a promise by 2030 for the lighting in their stores is to be converted to energy-efficient LEDs while the materials they use to be completely recyclable and renewable. These efforts seem to have a positive impact on the business, as in 2019 IKEA had the first year where their carbon footprint was reduced while retail sales grew.
Unilever
Unilever reached its environmental and sustainability targets through buying small yet sustainable businesses and growing them. 26 of the sustainable brands they bought grew 46% quicker than everything else under their belt, delivering 70% of their total turnover growth. Implementing this strategy, Unilever is effectively leveraging its moral decision-making reputation, but also is making an impact as a business with a strong environmental focus.
Starbucks
Starbucks embraces environmental sustainability in everything it does. They only purchase Fair Trade Certified organic coffee and focus on completing LED certifications for all new outlets. Through its ‘green’ stores, Starbucks reduces operating costs and minimizes the environmental impact the business has. Additionally, in all air-conditioned stores, the temperature is adjusted from 72F to 75F, plus their cabinetry is made of 90% post-industrial materials.
Gucci
Gucci founded Chime for Change, a global movement committed to inspiring participation in the collective community. It is all about bringing people from different generations together, no matter the country, ethnicity, religion, or skin color, and unite and fight for gender equality. They were able to raise more than USD 17.5m and with the help of over 150 nonprofit partners, fund close to 450 projects in 89 countries.
The Pearl Source
The Pearl Source through the power pearls initiative earmarks a percentage of every sale for women’s issues by assisting their non profit partners.
Becoming an eco-friendly company is never easy, however, it is not impossible. While sustainable companies are created in any sector, businesses that deal directly with consumers have an extra level of pressure. And when the consumer has the final say and directly affects the growth of the business – companies have only one choice going forward.
