Top tips: On sustainability in tough times

Steve Ellingford. Photo / Supplied

Steve Ellingford is operations manager of the Bayfair Shopping Centre in Mt Maunganui. He discusses sustainability in tough times.

Are real cost savings achievable?

Without question. The installation of energy-efficient light bulbs, for example, to ensure lighting and air-conditioning are only used when required, is a relatively quick and straightforward way to make a significant difference to the power bill. Other efficiencies will depend heavily on the nature of the business.

A retail centre can work with retailers to set up a recycling practice that works for all parties, and the food court in particular is an area ripe for improvement: good systems are available to recycle all materials, including food and drink leftovers, with support and training for staff.

An office-based company can look at the recycling of materials and at how it uses suppliers such as couriers and those who supply printers, stationery and other resources. Many measures require a simple change in practice or policy rather than direct investments, and the cost savings are easily gauged.

What is the return on investment of establishing sustainable practice? Does the benefit truly outweigh the cost in dollar terms?

Many business owners incorrectly assume that improving sustainability will be a cost to the business: that it is something that only has a benefit from a reputational point of view.

In fact, establishing sustainable practices or elements in a business can lead to real, measurable cost-savings over time.

A switch to energy-efficient lighting, for instance, can have an immediate effect on overheads.

How can business owners get buy-in from staff, who may need a direct incentive to contribute to the improvement of practices?

Start by establishing a training programme (this can be formal or informal, as detailed or brief as you wish), to educate staff about what you want to achieve and how they can help reach these goals.

For most businesses, stakeholder buy-in is essential to the success and longevity of any sustainability programme, and most employees, given the opportunity to participate and contribute, will be supportive.

Staff training can involve explaining what the company is currently doing, where it wants to be and in what time frame, and what staff can do to help achieve these objectives. Employees are likely to have valuable ideas for improving current initiatives.

What kind of support is available to businesses wanting to establish or advance their sustainability programme?

There is extensive support, both practical and strategic, for sustainable practices by Kiwi businesses and individuals. One initiative being used at a local council level, in concert with government, is the Love NZ Recycle in Public Places programme, which helps businesses and public entities establish and streamline their recycling practices.

The not-for-profit Sustainable Business Network provides a great deal of support to businesses working towards sustainability. It receives government funding and currently operates in Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Wellington, Nelson/Tasman and Christchurch.

There are many information resources for different industries: people operating tourism businesses can seek advice from Green Globe and Qualmark, for instance.