Small and medium-sized companies make up 99.9% of the business fabric in our country, create 66% of industrial employment and represent 62% of GDP. They are, therefore, the backbone of the Spanish productive fabric and play a key role in the path to sustainability.
The size of the company is not at odds with proper waste management. That is why, if you manage one of them, it is important that you know how you can implement small measures in your business that will contribute to making your company more sustainable, bearing in mind the17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)included in the2030 Agendaas it is the case of SDG 15 on “Climate Action”; number 3, referring to “Health and well-being”; objective number 5, on “Gender equality” and those referring to “Responsible production and consumption” (SDG 12) and number 7: “Clean and non-polluting energy”, among others.
Sustainability implies adjusting the different processes and ways of working in your company. But how can you achieve it? Here are some ideas.
Control and reduce energy consumption
It is important that you turn off the equipment when it is not being used, you should adjust the temperature of the air conditioning, install efficient lighting with low consumption and take advantage of natural light.
A practical tip is to review electricity, water and gas bills to be able to control what your company’s consumption is, at what times of the day consumption is concentrated and check the contracted power to see if it meets the needs of your business.
Depending on these factors, you will be able to make decisions to change the habits of the company, modify the power or even change the contracted rate.
Work with responsible and close suppliers
Hire suppliers that express their commitment to sustainability, in this way, your company’s production process will be in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. In addition, a good idea is for suppliers to be local to avoid long trips and thus generate fewer emissions.
Manage waste
You must always take into account the policies to reduce the volume of waste generated, the reuse and recycling of those materials that are left over. There are numerous agencies specialized in environmental quality that can help you in this task.
Digitize the company
You should try to digitize all the administrative functions of the business. Say goodbye to paper and use applications of all kinds. From tools to organize tasks, to those designed to store documents in the cloud and thus avoid printing on paper.
Integrate sustainability into your value chain
Remember to keep in mind the sustainability objectives throughout the company’s production process. From the creation of the product to the end of its useful life, paying attention to the use of renewable materials, low energy consumption, biodegradable packaging…
Train employees
Employees must contribute to optimizing business results through continuous learning on issues such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ESG criteria (Environmental, Social and Governance) or those related to the environment.
The United Nations (UN) has established several programs that support companies in adopting sustainable measures. The Global Compact is an example of this and already has the adherence of more than 10,400 companies that work for sustainability through corporate social responsibility.
Do you know the new Sustainability Program for SMEsof the Chamber of Spain ? We offer aid for actions related to energy efficiency, the measurement of the carbon footprint, the circular economy and the 2030 Agenda. The objective of the program is to improve the productivity and competitiveness of micro, small and medium-sized companies with the adoption of a culture in favor of permanent innovation to achieve sustainable economic growth. Do not miss it!
