Taking Sustainability Online

Taking sustainability online

Sustainability manager Sarah Robins says that your customer website is the ideal place to promote your eco and community credentials.

They say that websites are modern day shop windows, and that’s true but they’re also so much more than a display of what’s for sale. Your website reflects who you are and all that you do, so it’s important —as well as a great opportunity— to use it to promote your commitments to sustainability and the communities you serve.

And this needn’t be complex. Following a simple ‘Three Ps’ approach of Policies, Products and People will ensure you’ve covered the important aspects for most schoolwear retailers.

Policies… and commitments

Whatever you’re doing to promote sustainability then its a good idea to summarise it into a simple policy statement. Be clear on the action you are taking and the progress you hope to make. And take a broad approach, for sustainability today includes energy and the environment, fair trade, a concern for nature, community and people.

By publishing your policies and commitments online, you’re showing your values to your customers and partner schools. And in so doing you’re demonstrating how even as a small business you’re making a difference and responding to the bigger picture.

Products… and packaging

Websites are ideal for visually promoting more sustainable product lines. By using labels and tags you can identify ecofriendly garments, expanding the information in any product descriptions. As well promoting recycled fabrics, don’t forget qualities such as low wash temperatures. Indeed, kite marks and accreditations are ideal graphics to use throughout your site. It can a good idea to publish these alongside your policy statements.

On Banner’s Media Hub we have copies of the accreditations that apply to many of our garments, but you might also add local certificates and accreditations that apply specifically to your store.

People… and community

While responsibly sourced garments are at the heart of sustainable schoolwear, it is people and community that are its lifeblood too. Promoting initiatives such as second hand uniform sales are a great way of showing that you care about your customers and are working to support a circular economy. Many of schoolwear retailers also sponsor community events or volunteer for charities.

All your sustainability actions, however small they may seem, make a difference and your customers and schools will want to hear about them.

And finally…

Consumer research shows that being honest about the small but realistic changes we’re making is more trustworthy than claims which are impressive but improbable. So shout about the actions you’re taking and be proud of your contribution to a more sustainable future.