What is sustainable business?

A company that consistently participates in environmentally friendly or “green” activities is considered sustainable. This type of organization ensures that all processes, products and operations adequately address current environmental concerns, while also remaining profitable. The goal of a sustainable business is to meet the environmental needs of the present without compromising the needs of the future.

Why sustainable business is important to you

The impetus to operate as a sustainable business comes from a variety of sources, including:

• Consumers who purchase products;
• Employees and contractors;
• Government regulators; and
• Other stakeholders and investors

There is also a developing understanding that sustainable processes and practices can yield measureable financial improvements. Many companies are seeing strong financial returns from their sustainability efforts, especially when these efforts are directed at solving multiple problems with one solution.

For example, there are many documented initiatives that focus on improving product packaging – either in design, materials or usability. And these improvements in packaging can also contribute to reducing waste and energy, as well as benefiting the environment and communities.

Organizations are also taking a broader view of sustainability by implementing design for the environment (DFE) models for their new product development practices. This DFE approach can create significant improvement in the environmental impact of a product, as well as the processes used to create it.

The impact of environmental improvements in supply chains is significant. Real benefits can be achieved through sustainability, including:

• Distribution networks
• Reductions to transportation miles
• Transportation equipment
• Sourcing locations

Why Tompkins is best

Tompkins International has assisted clients with sustainable business practices that deliver real cost reduction for more than 20 years. Sustainability – one of our guiding principles – is a consideration in all operations projects that we undertake.

We have developed a strong, common-sense approach to reducing costs in supply chains and promoting sustainable business through environmental initiatives.

Find out more in these case studies on Greening your Operations and Business Sustainability:

Gerawan Farming reduces cost, product damage, and energy use while increasing flexibility with help from Tompkins International. Read more.

Burt’s Bees finds efficiency and energy savings: Tompkins International implements equipment and systems for greener facility. Read more.

Discuss green issues: Read and comment on recent posts on the topic of sustainable business from CEO Jim Tompkins.

Risk, Economics and the Environment — Defining Sustainability and Best Practices for Businesses: Listen to the podcast or read the text transcript.

Download the White Paper, Why Sustainability Matters in Your Supply Chain: Sustainability affects the entire supply chain, for both suppliers and those who are supplied by others. This paper helps companies better define sustainability, its drivers, supply chain implications, and future development.

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Tompkins International is a member of the Go Green Association.