In a world increasingly aware of its environmental footprint, sustainability has become more than a buzzword; it’s a necessity. But navigating the myriad of certifications and reporting frameworks can be daunting. To shed light on this, I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Emma, a sustainability consultant at Considerate Group, a leader in the field of sustainable business practices.
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Emma has been with Considerate Group for over five years, and her passion for sustainability is palpable. Our conversation covered everything from B Corp certifications to BREEAM assessments, and how businesses can align themselves with these frameworks to not only improve their environmental impact but also enhance their market reputation.
“When it comes to sustainability certifications, businesses often don’t know where to start,” Emma began, her tone both empathetic and enthusiastic. “Each certification serves a different purpose and meets different needs, so understanding them is crucial.”
We started with B Corp, a certification that has been gaining traction globally. “B Corp is unique because it doesn’t just look at environmental impact; it also considers social performance,” Emma explained. “To become a B Corp, a company must meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. It’s not just about being green; it’s about being responsible in every sense.”
Emma then moved on to BREEAM, a leading sustainability assessment method for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings. “BREEAM is incredibly detailed,” she said. “It assesses the lifecycle of buildings and projects, considering everything from energy use to the health and well-being of occupants. It’s a comprehensive approach that ensures sustainability is integrated at every stage.”
One of the key takeaways from our discussion was the importance of choosing the right certification for your business. “It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the options,” Emma admitted. “That’s why we offer workshops and webinars to help businesses understand these frameworks. We provide hands-on, interactive experiences that foster practical sustainability knowledge and support strategy implementation.”
These workshops, whether conducted virtually or in-person, include engaging activities and discussions that provide participants with a deeper understanding of sustainability principles. “We believe that learning by doing is the most effective way to grasp these concepts,” Emma said. “Our goal is to empower businesses to act and create positive change.”
Emma also touched on the importance of sustainability reporting frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). “Reporting is crucial because it holds companies accountable,” she explained. “The GRI provides a comprehensive set of indicators for economic, environmental, and social performance. Meanwhile, the CDP focuses specifically on carbon emissions and climate change.”
I was curious about how businesses can keep up with the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability policies and legislation. “It’s definitely a challenge,” Emma acknowledged. “Policies and legislation are constantly changing, and it’s important for businesses to stay informed. We provide expert advice to help our clients navigate this complex terrain. Whether it’s understanding new regulations or implementing best practices, we’re here to guide them every step of the way.”
Emma’s insights were not only informative but also inspiring. Her dedication to sustainability and her commitment to helping businesses achieve excellence in this area were evident throughout our conversation. “At the end of the day, sustainability is about continuous improvement,” she said. “It’s not about being perfect; it’s about making progress and striving to do better.”
As our conversation drew to a close, I asked Emma what advice she would give to businesses just starting their sustainability journey. “Start small but think big,” she advised. “Identify quick wins that can make an immediate impact, but also develop a long-term strategy. And don’t be afraid to seek help. There are plenty of resources and experts available to guide you.”
Speaking with Emma made it clear that while the path to sustainability might be complex, it’s also incredibly rewarding. By understanding and leveraging the right certifications and reporting frameworks, businesses can not only improve their environmental and social impact but also position themselves as leaders in their industries.
For those looking to embark on this journey, the guidance and expertise of professionals like Emma at Considerate Group can make all the difference. Sustainability is a shared responsibility, and with the right support, every business can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Tobiasz Karcz
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