Businesses must help manage biodiversity

By 2050 the global population will reach 9 billion.   Keeping that in mind, the planet and our access to resources will remain the same.  Businesses will need to manage their resources more effectively than ever before if they wish to be profitable and intact.  Currently companies take for granted their access to natural resources and as a result, many remain ignorant of the effect biodiversity’s decline will have on them.

Any decision made regarding office supplies, power-use, and food & water consumption have far-reaching consequences.  The first step is to track the quantities and the sources of what you and your office consumes.  Sustainability software allows companies to record carbon footprints and energy use efficiently and clearly.   By understanding where your business stands in CO2 emission, you can define a clear target of where your business needs to be.

The Water Footprint Network recently released a Water Footprint Manual to help companies better manage water-use, which is becoming increasingly important for the planet.  February 2nd marked the thirteenth annual World Wetlands Day.  In order to ensure a sustainable future we need to manage our freshwater sources that are already being depleted due to climate change and overuse.  Even if the tap isn't running, freshwater is consumed indirectly—paper and agriculture, for example, use enormous quantities of freshwater to build products.  By recycling paper and using recycled paper, businesses create lasting and beneficial impacts on the environment.  Not only does more efficient paper management save companies money, it preserves forests where much of our planet’s biodiversity is in danger.

Becoming more environmentally conscious can be profitable as well.  On average, green buildings show a 7.5% increase in selling value according to Earth Share's website; green office buildings also experience greater occupancy and lower maintenance costs.  In addition, governments are likely to impose restrictions on emissions and waste; anticipating these reforms can save businesses time and money in the future.  Customers that are environmentally aware are more likely to support businesses that are environmentally friendly.  The benefits and necessity of adapting to meet the challenges that climate change and biodiversity decline present become more lucid each day.  The key is to utilise the resources available and act quickly and decisively.

Author: Michael Good | Climate Action

Images Provided by:

Wonderlane | Flickr