The rise of sustainability in business

Sustainability emerged as a pressing issue for businesses in the early 2000s, fuelled by growing environmental consciousness, regulatory changes, and consumer demands for responsible practices.

The momentum only increased after the United Nations launched the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, introducing 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals call on businesses to act as a force for good, addressing climate change, and promoting prosperity for people and the planet.

While not every industry requires a dedicated sustainability manager, the collective responsibility to adopt better practices is undeniable. Imagine weaving sustainability into the very fabric of your company's culture, operations, and decisions. Having an expert on board to guide you will make the whole process so much smoother. It’s all about creating a community where you can be open and honest about our values and commitment to doing what's right.

The role of a Sustainability Manager

Sustainability managers wear many hats, overseeing environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) initiatives. Their remit includes developing and implementing strategies to improve a company's sustainability across all facets. They work tirelessly to reduce waste, energy use, and carbon emissions while ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting responsible practices.

The word "sustainability" is often tossed around freely, with companies pledging grand strategies for change. However, what we need is real progress and transparency. A sustainability manager makes this happen by tracking performance against sustainability goals and providing detailed reports, ensuring your company remains accountable and makes tangible progress.

Take Secret Linen Store, for instance. In 2023, we became a B Corp, signalling our commitment to social and environmental responsibilities. By hiring a sustainability manager, Secret Linen Store was able to produce its first Impact Report, evaluating our business practices from supply chain operations to employee benefits through a sustainable lens. This report not only highlights achievements but also sets future goals, providing clear direction and guidance.

Challenges and benefits

Adopting a sustainability manager role comes with its challenges. For example, businesses may face resistance to change or struggle to allocate resources. But trust me, the long-term perks are well worth those initial hiccups.

Sustainability managers are the champions of positive change, fostering a culture of accountability and ethical responsibility that resonates with consumers and enhances brand loyalty.

You might be wondering if existing employees with other responsibilities can take on sustainability duties. While sustainability should be a shared responsibility across departments, having a focal point – a sustainability manager – I believe is crucial for leading the charge. They’re the ones making sure sustainability is woven into the very fabric of your company’s culture and operations, making it second nature for everyone involved.

Building expertise

Navigating the world of sustainability is like joining a lively and ever-changing conversation. Staying compliant and effective means we all need to keep learning and adapting. Even the most seasoned professionals find themselves expanding their knowledge as regulations shift.

For businesses without a dedicated sustainability expert, there are plenty of online resources and courses which can provide valuable insights and training. These should help your team quickly upskill in this critical area. For example, you could do a Diploma in Business Sustainability, or read as many articles as you can on the subject, such as this one on Harvard Business Review and of course there's plenty of information on the B Lab website.

Looking ahead

Looking to the future, sustainable practices will likely become compulsory by law or necessary to attract customers, so it's worthwhile taking action now!

The fight against greenwashing is gaining momentum, with organisations like the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA) developing codes to ensure genuine environmental claims. Notably, major UK retailers like ASOS, Boohoo, and Asda have faced scrutiny for misleading claims about their environmental benefits. These investigations are setting the stage for more honesty in green marketing, which is something we can all cheer for.

So, here's where we stand: the business world is at a crucial turning point. Companies that prioritise sustainability now will be the ones to thrive in the future. The creation of a sustainability manager will ensure everything’s running smoothly, ethically, and of course, in compliance. Plus, it sets your business up as a trailblazer in the industry – a leader who's genuinely committed to long-term success and taking care of our planet.

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