In today’s business landscape, sustainability is no longer a niche concern. Consumers are interested in buying from environmentally friendly companies.
A NielsenIQ study reveals that about 80% of US customers want to live a sustainable lifestyle. Moreover, according to First Insight’s report, about 90% of Gen X consumers are inclined to pay an additional 10% or more for sustainable goods. In contrast, in 2020, only about 34% of customers were willing to pay extra.
This growing consumer demand is pushing businesses to rethink their approach to sustainability, often in creative and unexpected ways. While many companies focus on common green practices like recycling or reducing paper use, some branch out to less obvious places.
In this blog post, we’ll explore five unusual sustainable business practices that businesses are adopting, proving that going green can be impactful and inspiring.
1. Sustainable Practices in Data Centers
Data centers are the foundation of the tech ecosystem, but they require vast amounts of power, primarily for cooling. Many data centers are adopting creative practices to reduce their environmental impact.
For example, some use renewable energy sources like wind or solar power. Others are using ambient air or seawater to cool their server rooms. In coastal areas, businesses pump cold seawater through their cooling systems. Inland, they’re using “free cooling” techniques that draw in cool outside air. One innovative approach that is gaining traction is Nautilus water cooling technology.
Nautilus’s data center in Stockton, California, uses natural cold water from lakes and rivers to cool server racks. This method does not involve potable water or chemicals. Moreover, it returns the water to its source slightly warmer but safe for the environment. It takes in water less than 80 °F (26.67 °C) in temperature and contains it for around 15 seconds. It then releases it by slightly raising its temperature by 2-2.5 degrees.
In addition to lowering operational expenses, these sustainable business practices help improve the company’s reputation. Customers and partners value businesses that invest in sustainability. Moreover, adhering to these practices helps companies meet regulatory requirements and avoid potential penalties.
2. Eco-friendly Business Tradeshows
Tradeshows are the last place you think of for sustainability, but they are increasingly adopting green practices. Many businesses opt for eco-friendly trade show displays made from recycled or sustainable materials.
According to Eco-Systems Sustainable Designs and Classic Exhibits Inc., these sustainable displays are often designed for easy disassembly and reuse, reducing waste. Think of it as an opportunity to build your brand image. These displays align with your sustainability efforts and appeal to potential environmentally conscious clients.
Digital materials are also replacing printed brochures, thus reducing paper waste. Some companies even use virtual reality to showcase products, eliminating the need for physical samples.
3. Green Initiatives in Industrial Manufacturing
Manufacturing is usually considered a major pollutant. However, many companies are changing this perception. Sustainable business practices in manufacturing involve reducing waste, recycling materials, and sourcing sustainable inputs.
For instance, some manufacturers now use recycled materials for products, reducing the need for virgin resources. A notable example is the automotive industry, where companies use recycled steel and aluminum. These practices help the environment and also reduce production costs.
Implementing sustainable business practices in manufacturing processes often leads to increased efficiency and better marketability. Consumers today prefer products made responsibly, making sustainability a competitive advantage.
4. Waste-to-Energy Systems in Food Courts
Food courts are notorious for generating massive amounts of waste. However, some innovative businesses are turning this problem into an opportunity. They’re installing waste-to-energy systems that convert food scraps into biogas.
Here’s how it works: Food waste is collected and fed into an anaerobic digester. Microorganisms break down the waste, producing biogas. This gas is then used to power the facility, reducing reliance on the grid and lowering the environmental footprint. A perfect example of this is the new Royal Caribbean International cruise ships.
Named Icon of the Seas and Silversea Cruises’ Silver Nova, these ships will be the first to debut this innovative technology. Two systems, Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis (MAP) and Micro Auto Gasification (MAG) will collect the wasted food and process it into synthesis gas (syngas). This byproduct can directly be used to power the ship.
With such technology, Royal Caribbean International hopes to lower cruise food wastage by 50% by 2025.
5. Circular Economy in Retail Fashion
Fast fashion has long been criticized for its environmental impact. Some studies argue that fashion causes 10% of human-produced carbon oxides and 20% of the earth’s wastewater.
This has resulted in some retailers embracing a circular economy model. They’re setting up in-store recycling programs where customers can dispose of old clothes. However, the retailers don’t stop there. They’re upcycling old inventory into new products. For example, unsold t-shirts might become tote bags, or damaged jeans could be transformed into denim jackets. Brands like Patagonia are taking this concept further with their Worn Wear program.
Customers can exchange used Patagonia garments for store credit or even a repair. The used clothes are then meticulously inspected, repaired if possible, and resold at a discounted price. This system helps extend the clothing life cycle and also reduces the environmental footprint associated with producing new items. It is estimated that the company sold 120,000 repurposed items up until 2020.
People Also Ask
Q1. Can Sustainable Practices Save Businesses Money?
Yes. Many sustainable business practices, like waste-to-energy systems or recycled materials, can reduce reliance on landfills and virgin resources. This translates to lower waste disposal and material acquisition costs. Additionally, some sustainable practices can also result in significant savings on utility bills.
Q2. How Can I Get Started With Implementing Sustainable Practices in My Business?
There are countless resources available to help you get started. Start by auditing your current operations to identify areas where you can reduce waste or energy consumption. Research best practices specific to your industry, and consider attending sustainability workshops or conferences. Start small, and expand on your breakthroughs.
Q3. What Are Some Additional Unusual Sustainable Business Practices We Are Adopting?
Businesses are getting creative with sustainability. Some breweries capture the carbon dioxide released during fermentation to carbonate their beers. Construction companies are using recycled demolition materials in new buildings. Office spaces incorporate living walls that purify indoor air and improve employee well-being. The possibilities are endless.
In conclusion, sustainability is no longer limited to traditional areas like recycling or energy conservation. It has spread across various commercial settings, from fashion to business trade shows.
By adopting such innovative practices, businesses can reduce their environmental impact, lower costs, and improve marketability. As you consider your sustainability efforts, focus on outside-the-box creativity. Look for unexpected areas where you can make a difference. Remember, sometimes, the most effective solutions come from the most unusual places.
