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The
World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)
describes eco-efficiency as a management strategy of doing more
with less. In practice, eco-efficiency is achieved through the
pursuit of three core objectives:
1. Increasing
product or service value;
2. Optimizing the
yse of resources; and,
3. Reducing
environmental impact.
Because of the opportunity for cost savings associated with each
of these objectives, addressing them makes good business sense.
In fact, case studies of companies that have adopted
eco-efficient technologies and practices demonstrate that
eco-efficiency stimulates productivity and innovation, increases
competitiveness and improves environmental performance.
Reaping the Benefits
Eco-efficiency offers a number of practical benefits for your
business, including
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Reduced costs -
through more efficient use of energy and materials;
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Reduced risk
and liability - by "designing out" the need for toxic
substances;
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Increased
revenue - by developing innovative products and increasing
market share;
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Enhanced brand
image - through marketing and communicating your improvement
efforts;
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Increased
productivity and employee morale - through closer alignment of
company values with the personal values of the employees; and,
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Improved
environmental performance - by reducing toxic emissions, and
increasing the recovery and reuse of "waste" material.
Company-wide Commitment = Company-wide Benefits
Achieving the benefits listed above requires a commitment to
eco-efficiency throughout the various divisions, departments and
functions of your business. The return on investment is
achievable benefits in all areas of your business, including:
Management-viewing
your company's activities through an eco-efficient lens can
reveal hidden costs and unexploited opportunities. Better
information supports better decisions, which can lead to
competitive advantage in the marketplace.
Design and development-reducing
material and energy intensity of your products and services, and
increased product durability results in cost savings for your
business and your customers.
Purchasing-working
with other business functions to reduce hazardous and/or toxic
materials used in processes and facilities, reduces costs
associated with employee health and safety, and waste disposal.
Accounting-tracking
costs and benefits of managing your environment impacts and
improvements, results in more informed decision-making and
strategic planning.
Marketing and Communications-providing
your customers, stakeholders and investors with updates on your
productivity improvements and innovations improves brand image,
and can attract new customers and financing.
Production and Distribution-optimizing
the use of materials and resources, minimizing waste, and
offering remanufacturing/refurbishing services provides your
company with cost savings opportunities and opens new markets.
Facilities Management-implementing
recycling programs, improving building efficiency and site
management processes motivates employees and improves the
company image while reducing operational costs.
posted by Heirma |
07/02/2004 |
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