e x pert a dv i c e
THE PATH TO A
PLANET-FRIENDLY BUSINESS Your customers are worried about the impacts of climate change, with many believing that Australia should be a world leader on climate action.
“It’s important to keep in mind that while a sustainability program will probably require some initial financial outlay, there are savings to be made long term by pursuing a more efficient, less wasteful business model.” Corina Vucic | Director | FC Business Solutions
People are making purchasing decisions based on the green credentials of a business and its products. Every business should now be examining how it can contribute to a more sustainable future, or be left in the dust of competitors who have their fingers on the pulse of consumer sentiment. Legislation is pushing some areas of retail into better practices – such as the phasing out of single use plastic bags and major retailers, including Coles and Woolworths, have signed on to the ANZPAC plastics pact, committing to reduce their plastic use by 2025. Where many small businesses would struggle to make significant changes, the franchising sector, because of the scale it can apply, is ideally placed to play a big role in helping thousands of small businesses become more environmentally sustainable, and thereby have a meaningful impact on the future of our planet.
Start with a sustainability policy
• How will you measure this?
It’s important to keep in mind that while a sustainability program will probably require some initial financial outlay, there are savings to be made long term by pursuing a more efficient, less wasteful business model.
It’s important to articulate your goals in this area. Your policy should describe your commitment to reducing your carbon footprint, decreasing waste and increasing sustainability.
• How will you meet current and foreshadowed government environmental impact policies?
While the measures that can be taken vary from industry to industry, there are some common areas that franchisees can address:
Questions to consider are:
• How will you continually improve your sustainability performance?
• How do you plan to reduce your environmental impact?
• How will you manage and communicate your policy?
30 Business Franchise Australia and New Zealand
