Sustainability has reached every facet of our society and has had major impacts on the ways we work and live. It’s based on the scientific understanding that:
- Our world has a finite supply of resources.
- We need to create, consume and live in a way that does not push this balance of resources beyond the tipping point.
Sustainability has become a key concept for many businesses, which is reflected in their long-term investment in people and practices that help them meet sustainability goals.
True sustainability requires examining the complex systems we rely on and finding ways to improve them without causing harm elsewhere. Here are some examples of what sustainability looks like in practice for an organization.
Sustainability research and assessment
The first step toward sustainability is conducting a thorough assessment of organizational practices.
For organizations that create digital products, such as data collection, storage or processing, this means focusing on energy consumption, both in office and onsite locations. Evaluating energy sources of server space used is crucial.
For manufacturing companies, sustainability involves assessing how products are made and moved. Examining everything from the procurement of raw materials to transportation and the manufacturing process itself enables teams to make informed decisions, including where to source materials. Mapping out these systems allows organizations to identify options for more sustainable choices.
Once an assessment and carbon footprint is created, you can initiate a set of goals and develop strategic ways to improve sustainability and offset any unavoidable issues.
Acting on your findings
Once you have a map of the inputs and outputs, an effective sustainability plan requires action. If your organization uses servers in a region or country that depends on high-carbon energy production, research alternatives and prepare a cost-benefit analysis of moving your data storage elsewhere. You can also partner with the digital infrastructure team to find a model that stores data in multiple places.
If, for example, your organization is buying recycled raw materials to create products in the name of sustainability but is shipping those products from overseas, the benefits might be eclipsed by the carbon cost of transporting goods to your manufacturing center. In this case, finding a supplier that’s closer or using non-recycled material might be more sustainable.
When you can’t alter unsustainable business practices because of high costs, supply chain issues or other snags, you can find ways to offset their impact. Sustainability planning means recognizing these nuances and balancing both environmental and business realities.
Offsetting
Sustainability is built on the idea that practices are both “good in general” and “good for business.” This principle is supported by the growing customer demand for sustainable and clean products. However, sustainability still must make financial sense. Therefore, sustainability goals are achievable by offsetting.
One way to offset successfully is to gather ideas and create economical programs that have an outsized carbon reduction. Incentivize your staff to take alternative paths to work, such as encouraging the following:
- Public transit use
- Biking to work
- Remote work options
Another way is to work with a local sustainability nonprofit or non-governmental organization by donating or offering other forms of assistance.
- Encourage employees to volunteer for sustainable causes.
- Donate used office goods and electronics.
- Educate employees about sustainable practices for home.
Incorporate this work as part of your organization’s profile or brand, informing customers or clients about sustainability best practices.
Prepare for your career in sustainability at Columbia Southern University
The ability to assess organizational practices, collaborate across departments, stay current with evolving technologies, and design programs that engage both employees and customers are all critical skills in the sustainability field.
As demand for sustainability professionals grows, education plays a key role in preparing leaders for these challenges. Academic programs – such as the sustainability concentrations in Columbia Southern University’s bachelor’s degree programs in environmental management and occupational safety and health – equip students with the knowledge to help organizations build a more sustainable future. Continuing education courses offer a concise learning option for specialized knowledge in this industry.
Learn more about our programs here.
Disclaimers:
Continuing education programs aren’t eligible for federal student aid, military tuition assistance, VA funding or Learning Partner discounts.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU doesn’t guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position or other career growth. Testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
