Increasingly customers, investors and even employees, expect businesses to prioritise Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. Embracing ESG initiatives not only helps the planet and society but also brings several benefits to your own business, writes Tyson Sheppard MRCIS, Chartered Surveyor and Partner at Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge based estate agents Bracketts. 

If you’ve not considered it yet, here are seven of the most impactful ESG actions that you can take to enhance your business while making a positive impact: 

1. Implement Energy Efficiency Measures
Reducing energy consumption not only lowers your carbon footprint but also saves costs. Evaluate your energy usage, upgrade to energy-efficient equipment, install LED lighting, and consider renewable energy sources to reduce both environmental impact and operational expenses.

2. Reduce Waste and Implement Recycling
Take steps to minimize waste generation by implementing recycling programs, encouraging reusable packaging, and reducing single-use items. Educate your employees and customers about recycling best practices, ensuring a responsible waste management system.

3. Prioritise Water Conservation
Identify areas where water is used inefficiently in your operations and implement water-saving measures. Optimise water consumption, invest in water-efficient technologies, and raise awareness among employees to conserve this precious resource.

4. Adopt Sustainable Supply Chain Practices
Assess your supply chain and choose suppliers that align with your sustainability goals. Prioritise those who emphasize ethical sourcing, fair labour practices, and reduced environmental impact. Collaborating with like-minded partners strengthens your commitment to sustainability.

5. Encourage Community Engagement
Support local communities by participating in initiatives that address social issues. Volunteer, sponsor local events, or collaborate with nonprofits to make a positive impact. Engaging with the community fosters goodwill and strengthens your brand reputation.

6. Invest in Employee Training and Education
Equip your workforce with the knowledge and skills needed to embrace sustainable practices. Conduct training sessions, workshops, and awareness campaigns to empower employees to contribute to your ESG initiatives effectively.

7. Measure and Report Progress
Establish metrics to measure your sustainability progress regularly. Transparently report your achievements, challenges, and goals to stakeholders, showcasing your commitment to continuous improvement. Embrace sustainability reporting frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB).

Bracketts recently joined Amplifi, a collective of like-minded businesses based in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas. It is Amplifi’s aim is to reduce noise and confusion around sustainability and to facilitate ways to learn from and support one another. It is our involvement in Amplifi which grew in our understanding of these 12 ESG actions, and we are now looking to implement changes to incorporate these to make a meaningful difference. 

By incorporating these 12 impactful ESG actions into your own business, as we are trying to do at Bracketts, you can make a substantial difference. Remember, every step, no matter how small, contributes to a more sustainable future. Start today, and let your ESG journey lead you to greater success while creating a positive impact on society and the environment.

If you would like to discuss something related to the above please contact Tyson Sheppard MRICS direct via email at @tyson-sheppard or 01892 533733. 

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