'Green is the new gold' for South West businesses
Sustainability has historically been a word banded around by businesses for PR purposes. But times are changing as companies across the world are responding to stakeholder, investor and customer pressure and are investing in the development of sustainable business practices.
By adopting these practices, companies can gain competitive edge, increase their market share, and boost shareholder value. What's more, the rise in ethical consumerism has created a major new market from which savvy businesses are reaping huge rewards.
The South West is leading the march as companies in the region prove that no matter what the sector, they can be run in an ethical and sustainable way.
Beacon South West is a South West of England Regional Development Agency (RDA) initiative that is dedicated to identifying and bringing together the region's most successful companies which include leading sustainable enterprises. There are currently 190 Beacon companies in the network, spanning breweries, manufacturers, leisure operators, architects and luxury food companies.
Discussions about how to adopt sustainability have been taking centre stage in the Beacon Boardrooms - the regular gatherings of Beacon companies that occur across the region. Companies such as Mulberry, Venus and Triodos Bank with strong policies in this area have been quick to share best practice at the Beacon Boardrooms, providing much food for thought.
Sue Baker, director of Beacon South West, comments: "In recent months, the issue of sustainability, what policies companies should be considering and how to use the environment to add value to a brand have recurred across the Beacon network. We are eager to highlight Beacon companies that are making great strides in this area so that they can inspire other businesses and protect the competitiveness of the region's economy."
Triodos Bank, a Beacon company since January 2005, is Europe's leading ethical bank, using money in a way that is better for people and the planet. It finances organisations that benefit society and the environment, with the support of depositors and investors who share the same values. Crucially, Triodos Bank does not just avoid companies that harm society or the environment, but only lends to organisations that actively do good - from integrated healthcare to housing, and organic food to fair-trade.
Sue Cooper, who manages Triodos' social banking team, explains: "Because Triodos was established to be a pioneer of sustainable banking, it goes beyond standard notions of Corporate Social Responsibility. For Triodos, sustainability isn't an additional extra, but central to our business, mission and purpose - it's in our DNA.
"Triodos Bank is committed to an environmentally sound approach to business. It's important that we demand the same high standards for ourselves as we do from our customers."
Triodos Bank is an active member of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), which sets international standards for reporting a businesses social and environmental impact, in addition to their financial performance, and the Bank's environmental management system has been awarded ISO 14001 certification.
At its offices, Triodos recycles cardboard, waste paper and aluminium cans and composts all green waste in the offices' gardens. It also has targets for the reduction of use of materials and how much waste is recycled.
"Triodos Renewables, our renewable energy investment fund, is one of many practical solutions we offer to the environmental problems that face us today," says Sue. "The Fund's main objective is to invest in renewable energy projects and developments in the UK, raising funds from institutions and individuals who are committed to the environment and who recognise the commercial opportunity of renewable energy. The Fund's pioneering approach demonstrates to others that a successful business can thrive while taking into account the needs of people and planet as well as profit. In doing so Triodos Renewables has helped to raise the profile of ethical investments."
Another Beacon company which has led the UK's sustainability movement is the Venus Company, whose mission is to be the greenest beach cafe and shop operator. Venus operates The Venus Cafe at the beaches of Blackpool Sands, East Portlemouth and Bigbury on Sea in South Devon and at Tolcarne in Cornwall. There are also Venus Beach Shops at Blackpool Sands, East Portlemouth and Tolcarne beaches.
The business strives to minimise the harmful effects and maximise the beneficial influences which its activities have on the environment and every business decision reflects this dedication. The company has won major awards for its commitment to the environment, notably in 2005, The Queens Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development for providing the best al fresco Mediterranean style dining experience in a UK beach setting whilst integrating environmental and social care into every business decision.
Michael Smith, managing director of Venus Company, comments: "Our company philosophy is best summed up by our strap line of 'Loving the Beach'. That is the belief that underpins all that we do. In particular, we return cardboard, plastic and used cooking oil for recycling, use energy efficient equipment and menus, green tariff electricity to guarantee zero C02 output and elemental chlorine free paper and beach free biodegradable packaging. We also support the local community and economy by sourcing food, drink and other goods and services locally.
"We have recently teamed up with the Devon and Cornwall Wildlife Trusts to establish The Venus Beach Wildlife Fund. We are donating 5p on our customers' behalf for each cup of tea and every chocolate flake bought in the next five years. We aim to raise over £25,000 towards beach care and educational activities to encourage beachgoers' understanding of the special marine environment on those beaches where we have Venus Cafes."
Sue Baker of Beacon South West concludes: "There are so many ways to make a company impact the world for good and it is inspiring to see Beacon companies leading the way. There are commercial benefits as well as social from considering the impact of your company on its environment and businesses that bury their head in the sand will surely miss out."
