Article by Stacey Varsani
Founder & Principal Consultant, Hadouken Consulting
“In a world where consumers demand accountability, employees seek purpose, and investors prioritize sustainability, the pressure on businesses to embrace environmental responsibility is immense—so where should companies start their journey towards meaningful change?”
I’ve recently had some discussions with companies on the importance of taking genuine steps towards sustainability. Customers are increasingly demanding accountability, employees are seeking purpose, and investors are putting greater weight on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. However, there are a plethora of reporting standards, service providers, and potential investments to navigate so it can be difficult to know where to start. Here is some practical guidance on how to begin the sustainability transition.
1. Perform a Baseline Assessment
The first step in any sustainability journey is to perform a thorough baseline assessment and benchmark against peers. Companies should analyse their carbon footprint, waste management, resource consumption, and supply chain practices. This will highlight areas for improvement and provide a clear starting point for setting measurable goals.
2. Involve Employees
Engaging employees is crucial for fostering a culture of sustainability and obtaining diverse perspectives and ideas. Companies can organize workshops, training sessions, and brainstorming events to encourage participation. They can also establish "sustainability champions" within teams who can drive initiatives forward and create a sense of ownership among staff.
3. Start with “Easy Wins”
Starting with “easy wins”—initiatives that require minimal investment but yield significant benefits—can build momentum for more comprehensive efforts. For example, reducing single-use plastics or turning aircon/lights off after office hours can demonstrate quick, measurable results, inspiring further investment in sustainability initiatives.
4. Explore Technology Investments
Technology plays a vital role in advancing sustainability efforts and there are many new, innovative solutions available to make the sustainability transition more manageable. From energy-efficient systems to carbon management platforms, investments in technology can help companies improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
5. Partner with NGOs and Local Communities
Collaboration with NGOs and local communities can provide valuable insights and resources for implementing effective initiatives. These partnerships can help companies align their efforts with broader community goals, enhancing credibility and fostering a sense of shared purpose.
The Importance of Expertise
Hiring an expert—whether an external consultant or an internal sustainability officer—is critical. Experienced providers of audit and assurance services, such as Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) companies, are uniquely positioned to assist organizations in their sustainability journeys. Many of these companies have developed specialized ESG service offerings and certification programs. They can also support certification against international ESG standards and reporting against frameworks such as the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
As the pressure for sustainable practices continues to grow, companies must take proactive steps to address these demands. With the right expertise and commitment, businesses will not only meet stakeholder expectations but also contribute positively to the community at large. The time to act is now—embracing sustainability is essential for long-term success.
Hadouken Consulting specializes in helping businesses navigate these challenges with a unique combination of audit, strategy consulting, and TIC operations management experience. Rather than offering cookie-cutter solutions, Hadouken embeds within its clients' organizations to solve problems from the inside out and ensure the successful implementation of sustainable practices.
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