Sustainable businesses are future-ready businesses – ready to meet evolving consumer demand, supply chain needs, export opportunities, and to be competitive for procurement opportunities such as maximising  a sustainable Olympics legacy.   

Governments are committing to net zero targets and other environmental goals. Stakeholders are demanding sustainable products and larger corporations are seeking green, ethical supply chains.   

Businesses that act to ensure they are operating sustainably are best placed to make the most of immediate and future opportunities. They will set themselves apart from their competition and boost their performance while benefiting their community and the environment.   

Here are a few compelling reasons to embrace sustainability in your business. 

Become a supplier of choice and increase demand for your products and services  

• Customers and consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable products and services, and larger corporations are increasingly expecting sustainability in their supply chains.  Aligning with customer and supplier values and expectations will drive long-term partnerships and loyalty.  

• Building a purpose-driven brand with a demonstrated understanding of ESG factors will deepen trust across your stakeholder network and set your business apart from its competitors.    

Reduce costs and lift revenue  

• Implementing practices such as energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction and process optimisation will deliver operational efficiencies that promote cost-effectiveness, increase productivity and streamline operations.  

• As a sustainable and ethical business, you will attract the next generation, value-driven customers, build loyalty, and increase your brand value and reputation.  

Become future-proof, resilient and opportunity-ready  

• Forward-thinking, innovative and agile businesses are in pole position to win contracts and take advantage of opportunities in evolving markets.   

• Larger corporations are increasingly seeking sustainable, innovative solutions from their suppliers, and are more likely to select businesses that demonstrate a willingness to embrace and implement positive change.  

• Demonstrated commitment to ESG initiatives such as reducing your carbon footprint can position your business for significant growth opportunities such as Brisbane 2032 Olympics and international trade opportunities.  

Attract and retain talented employees  

• Employee attraction and retention is one of the most challenging issues facing businesses.  Employee values have shifted, and today’s employees demand a clear definition of the purpose and impact of a business to align with their strong views on sustainability to make the world a better place.  For example:  

• Creating a positive organisational culture  

• Fostering belonging through a diverse and inclusive workplace  

• Demonstrating ethical practices, social responsibility and a commitment to reducing environmental impacts.  

Access capital and grow  

• Investors, funds and financial institutions are increasingly considering the ESG initiatives of businesses.  Those that demonstrate implementation enjoy better access to finance and more favorable terms such as reduced interest rates  

• Local, State and Federal government grants are available to businesses that demonstrate they are proactively reducing their carbon footprint, operating with sustainability focus, and becoming more climate resilient.