When it comes to navigating the complex and ever-evolving world of sustainability accreditations, few can offer the depth of insight and practical advice that Natalie Evans brings to the table. As a Senior Consultant at Green Horizon Solutions, Natalie has been at the forefront of helping businesses achieve prestigious sustainability ratings like WELL and BREEAM. In our recent conversation, she shared her experiences and the pivotal role her team plays in fostering sustainable innovation.
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As I sat down with Natalie in the bright, eco-friendly office of Green Horizon Solutions, I was immediately struck by her passionate yet pragmatic approach to sustainability. “Our mission is to make sustainability accessible and achievable for all businesses, regardless of their size or sector,” she began, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. “We’re not just about ticking boxes. We’re about creating real, tangible benefits for our clients and the environment.”
Natalie’s team is renowned for their holistic approach to sustainability accreditations. They go beyond the standard checklist, delving into the strategic needs of each business to provide tailored advice and comprehensive business cases that unlock funding opportunities. “It’s imperative that our clients see the bigger picture,” she explained. “Achieving a WELL or BREEAM certification is just one part of a broader strategy to enhance their environmental footprint, improve employee wellbeing, and ultimately drive business performance.”
One of the key elements of their service is the initial assessment phase, a meticulous process that sets the foundation for all subsequent actions. “We start by conducting a thorough audit of the client’s current practices and facilities,” Natalie detailed. “This involves everything from energy consumption and waste management to employee health and comfort. It’s a comprehensive snapshot that allows us to identify both strengths and areas for improvement.”
From there, Natalie and her team develop a strategic plan tailored to the specific needs and goals of the client. This plan often includes innovative solutions and best practices that not only meet accreditation standards but also push the envelope in terms of sustainability. “For instance, we recently worked with a tech company looking to achieve WELL certification,” she recalled. “Beyond the standard requirements, we introduced biophilic design elements and advanced air purification systems that significantly boosted the indoor environmental quality. The result was not just a certified building but a healthier, more productive workspace.”
What sets Green Horizon Solutions apart is their ability to translate these strategic plans into compelling business cases that secure the necessary funding. “Many businesses are eager to invest in sustainability but struggle with the initial capital outlay,” Natalie noted. “We bridge this gap by presenting a clear, data-driven case for return on investment, often identifying grants, subsidies, and other funding sources that clients might not be aware of.”
Her team’s success is reflected in the diverse range of clients they’ve helped, from multinational corporations to local SMEs. One memorable project she mentioned was with a family-owned manufacturing company aiming for BREEAM accreditation. “They were initially sceptical about the process, worried it would be too costly and disruptive,” she said. “But we worked closely with them to implement energy-efficient technologies and sustainable materials that not only met the accreditation criteria but also reduced their operational costs in the long run. It was a win-win situation.”
Natalie’s journey into the realm of sustainability consulting was driven by a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship and a desire to make a difference. “I’ve always believed that businesses have a critical role to play in addressing global environmental challenges,” she shared. “By guiding them towards sustainable practices, we’re not just helping them achieve certifications. We’re fostering a culture of sustainability that can have a ripple effect throughout the industry.”
As our conversation drew to a close, I asked Natalie about the future of sustainability accreditations and the role her team might play in it. “The landscape is constantly evolving,” she said thoughtfully. “We’re seeing a greater emphasis on holistic wellbeing, circular economy principles, and net-zero carbon targets. Our role is to stay ahead of these trends and ensure our clients are not just compliant but leaders in sustainability.”
Her words left me with a profound appreciation for the intricate work that goes into achieving sustainability certifications and the strategic foresight required to make them truly impactful. It’s clear that under Natalie’s guidance, Green Horizon Solutions is not just meeting the standards of sustainability but setting new ones.
As I left the office, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the dedication and expertise that Natalie and her team bring to their work. They are, without a doubt, unlocking the future of sustainable business practices, one accreditation at a time.
Emily Thompson
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