Corporate Sustainability: Practical and Applicable
April 26, 2021
Solar panels are a rising and efficient form of renewable energy. An increasing number of homes, businesses, and government buildings are utilizing them.
With society constantly evolving, it’s imperative for corporations to be on the front lines of sustainable innovation. As more corporations move toward eco-friendly energy sources, they unlock a new side of business. From limiting environmental damage to creating new job opportunities, going green is as important as ever. While some companies still have a long way to go, others have invested themselves into eco-friendly business operations. This Earth Day, it’s important to reflect upon the strides made by various corporations while examining ways we can hold ourselves and companies accountable.
Impact Corporations
As large organizations grapple with quickening climate change, many have taken swift action to address these issues. In particular, renewable forms of energy, such as solar panels, have been implemented over the last decade. Companies, such as IKEA, have invested in a greener business model centered around their resources. They utilize over 700,000 solar panels in addition to receiving 50% of their wooded resources from sustainable foresters. Furthermore, Patagonia, an apparel company, constructs their products from natural rubber and recycled bottles while encouraging customers to reduce and reuse their products.
In conjunction with greener energy and resources, corporations have utilized advertising campaigns as well as social media to spread awareness about the environmental crisis. Given their platforms, influential organizations, such as Starbucks, have raised support for World Environment Day while donating to local charities in California to assist with rampant wildfires. Additionally, the company has outlined their environmental objectives over the next decade. In the coming years, Starbucks hopes to utilize reusable cups and conserve water usage by 50% as they look to limit their environmental footprint.
The work of these organizations sets an example for others and reveals the practically of a sustainable future!
Holding yourself and corporations accountable
Despite the recent progress within numerous companies, it’s imperative to continue advocating for change. In order to protect our environment, individuals will have to adopt sustainable practices while encouraging larger corporations to follow suit.
The following list includes both macro and micro ways of assisting the cause:
Conserve energy, both at home and at work. Look for the “Energy Star” label when purchasing appliances.
Driving: Carpool! Combine errands to avoid multiple trips! Efficiency for the win!
Consider moving to renewable energy: installing solar panels. Petition your employers to do the same.
Change out incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent (more efficient, last longer) light bulbs.
Start a recycling/composting program at work.
Sign petitions urging local and state officials to advocate for/implement renewable sources of energy.
Elect candidates who value continental and international climate treaties.
Invest in renewable energy! Some great companies are Brookfield Renewable Partners, First Solar, and NextEra Energy.
Run for elections in your town, school, or workplace in order to promote waste prevention.
Environmental Social Media campaigns! Can be performative in nature but at least they get the word out.
