Join us as we explore how workplace supplies businesses and leaders are driving positive change and shaping a cleaner, greener future for all
Over the last year, we’ve spoken to plenty of businesses from across the workplace supplies industry about their green and eco journey – whether they’re well-established in environmental practices or just getting started on the path to a cleaner, greener planet. For this article, we’ve gathered some of the best tips, success stories and advice from voices across the industry.
Fellowes
On starting with the end in mind
“We need to start with the end in mind, and this is reflected in our Design for the Environment programme. When we create new products, or upgrade existing ones, we set out the sustainability requirements at inception. Flexibility is key as we have a wide variety of products which require varied sustainability approaches, no one-size-fits-all. For example, in some cases, we are focusing on durability, emphasising a non-planned obsolescence mentality when developing our products.”
Tork Essity
On enhancing customer understanding through partnership
“Carbon reduction and carbon neutral is not yet fully understood by customers, we have worked a lot on explaining how this works and what the benefit for people and the planet is. ClimatePartner is also not known yet by customers in all markets, so we have collaborated on increased media support. We have carried out several campaigns with distributors and customers together with ClimatePartner and done activities such as planting trees in addition to our global projects. Next to this we are working on expanding the collaboration to more geographies.”
Antalis
On the challenges of educating across the board
“Undoubtedly- education is key, if we as suppliers do not pass on the key messages effectively how can we expect anyone to understand, absorb and pass on that knowledge? Paper and paper production can, and often is, unfairly regarded when environmental discussions and debates arise…I’m often frustrated to receive erroneous communications stating messages such as “this email saves trees” or to be told companies will no longer give me a paper receipt in favour of an electronic one. This messaging does the paper industry a disservice and in many cases is an inaccurate statement.”
MBM Omega
On focusing on local efforts
When it comes to environmental targets, focusing on local sustainability efforts is important and something achievable for the average business, particularly dealers. By implementing sustainable practices, dealers can directly contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for their community. Consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious and seeking out businesses with those strong credentials. So, taking local action positions you favourably in your market. There’s also cost savings. We found that introducing solar has reduced our energy bills and by switching vehicles to electric vehicles, although we have now more EVs in the fleet, the solar PV system we have is able to store sufficient energy to be able to charge the vehicles.”
The insights gathered from leaders across the workplace supplies industry highlight a collective commitment to advancing environmental sustainability. From designing products with longevity in mind to educating customers about carbon reduction initiatives, businesses are paving the way for a greener future.
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