Sustainability: A journey not a destination
At Go Climate Positive, we view sustainability as a journey, not a destination. We believe in the importance of continuously assessing and improving our impact. Moreover, we won’t achieve net zero until everyone does, making it a goal we must all strive towards together.
Is Sustainability Just a Box-Ticking Exercise?
It’s time to rethink this idea. Sustainability isn’t about ticking a few boxes and moving on; it’s a dynamic, ongoing journey that demands continuous adaptation and commitment. Real sustainability goes far beyond a checklist of actions. It involves embedding sustainable practices into the core of what we do, recognising that true progress requires constant effort and a willingness to evolve.
Achieving sustainability isn’t a one-time achievement or a destination. It’s about making a lasting impact through persistent dedication and a long-term perspective. So, rather than viewing sustainability as a box-ticking exercise, we should embrace it as an ever-evolving process—one that challenges us to innovate, grow, and contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future.
The Benefits of Embracing Sustainability as a Continuous Journey
By treating sustainability as a continuous journey, businesses can keep adapting and improving, which helps both the planet and their long-term success.
1. Innovation and Growth:
Looking for new ways to be sustainable sparks creativity. It pushes businesses to try new technologies and methods, making them more efficient and effective.
2. Long-Term Impact
Regularly updating sustainable practices creates lasting benefits. It integrates sustainability into everyday operations, rather than being just a one-time effort.
3. More Opportunities:
Actively engaging with sustainability can lead to cost savings, a better reputation, and stronger connections with customers and stakeholders who care about the environment.
Road to net zero programme
Our “Road to Net Zero” Programme will help you start your net zero journey, implementing all the components of a meaningful Net Zero plan in a step-by-step manner – allowing you to build your Net Zero journey at the pace that is right for your organisation. All whilst acknowledging it is a journey not a destination. This programme is a long-term commitment taking you step by step on your journey to net zero.
It will help you to:
- Make a long-term commitment to combating climate change and achieving “Net Zero”.
- Prepare your business for the low-carbon economy.
- Demonstrate your credentials through certification.
One journey – One subscription
The Road to Net Zero program brings together all the best practices you need to start your sustainability journey in one convenient package. With a single monthly subscription and a one-time joining fee, you’ll have access to everything you need. The fee is determined based on the number of employees, making it affordable for businesses of all sizes.
What Should I Do Now?
1. Stop viewing sustainability as a destination
Recognise that sustainability and the path to net zero require more than just completing a checklist. It involves a commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation.
2. Start planning ahead
Understand that sustainability is an ongoing process. Develop long-term strategies and plans that account for future challenges and opportunities, ensuring that sustainability becomes an integral part of your organisational culture.
3. Review existing initiatives
Regularly assess the sustainability initiatives you already have in place. Identify areas for improvement and build upon your current efforts to achieve greater environmental impact and efficiency.
Summary
Sustainability should be seen as a continuous, values-based transition. This perspective allows organisations to influence their sustainability journey positively, fostering innovation and reaping greater benefits along the way. By regularly assessing and enhancing their sustainability efforts, businesses can ensure they remain relevant and impactful, contributing to a more sustainable future for all.
Ready to Start your journey?
Before deciding on the best approach, it’s essential to clarify your goals. Whether you’re focused on understanding your carbon footprint, developing a robust reduction plan, or preparing for certification, defining your objectives will guide you towards the right solutions.
Contact us for a free consultation to explore how we can support your sustainability goals.
Written by Eoin McQuone
Eoin (pronounced like “Ian”) is the Chief Carbon Coach and founder of Go Climate Positive. He is a Practitioner member of IEMA (the Institute of Environmental Management) and a sustainability lead on the Cheltenham Economic Recovery Task Force.
Eoin says, “Sustainability is no longer a ‘nice to do’, it is business critical. My goal is to make it accessible and affordable for every business, however big or small , no matter their market sector.”
