As global consciousness shifts towards sustainability, “going green” is less of a trend and more of an essential part of doing business. Organisations should be doing everything possible across their operations—such as installing solar panels on their buildings, recycling plastic packaging, using electric vehicles, and more—to reduce environmental impacts and promote and drive legitimate climate action.
However, implementing more sustainable operating practices shouldn’t just be a box-ticking exercise. It’s a way for businesses to recognise that environmental impact goes beyond their direct operations and extends throughout the entire supply chain. And, it’s a way for businesses to take meaningful steps to minimise the effect they have on the environment. By partnering with likeminded organisations, companies can create a powerful network of shared values and common goals, ensuring that every step of the business process aligns with environmentally friendly principles, ultimately leading to a greener and more sustainable future.
Unearthing green partnerships
When evaluating whether a partner is the right fit, it’s important for organisations to outline the priorities and non-negotiables that will shape their expectations for the partnership. In looking for a green partner, there are five key factors to consider:
1. A strong sustainability culture
Nothing says green partner like a strong sustainability culture. It’s important to find a partner that lives and breathes sustainability, and with an environmental commitment that runs deep in every facet of their operations, from executive leaders and management to employees of every level. Look for evidence of sustainable workplace goals as well as senior leadership actively engaging employees in the cocreation of sustainable practices.
2. Financial stability and cost-effectiveness
Being green isn’t cheap, which raises concerns about the overall financial health of an organisation, as well as its ability to maintain competitive pricing for products and services. Considering how suppliers optimise costs in other areas is crucial in determining whether they can offer a favourable price that lets a company remain competitive.
3. Proven capabilities in sustainability
It’s always important to consider a partner’s capabilities; however, it becomes even more critical when it comes to specific deliverables required for sustainability. Evaluate the partner’s ability to deliver on sustainable goals, ensure the accuracy of their claims, and assess if they can scale their sustainability efforts to meet business needs.
4. Demonstrable track record of sustainability
Recognition from credible green organisations that provides tangible evidence – such as carbon neutral certification by Climate Active – often serves as an indication of a business’s dedication to sustainability. By thoroughly examining a company’s past performance, businesses can make more informed decisions about partnering. At Blue Connections IT, we are proud to have achieved carbon neutral certification for our 2022 business operations, certified by Climate Active, which is an important step in our sustainability journey.
5. Proactive response to sustainability challenges
It’s important to evaluate whether a potential green partner demonstrates proactive engagement in solving sustainability challenges. Do they exhibit a commitment to introducing innovative solutions towards sustainability? For example, at Blue Connections IT, we have demonstrated our commitment to reducing carbon emissions through a variety of initiatives, including equipping our warehouse with a 75-kilowatt solar panel array—which we plan to double to over 150 kilowatts in 2023—along with battery storage.¹
The importance of green partnerships
Finding green partners is a crucial step in the journey towards sustainability. It extends beyond individual operations and encompasses the entire supply chain and operating ecosystem. Through collaboration with like-minded partners and suppliers, businesses can collectively work towards achieving shared sustainability goals and reduce their environmental impact, paving the way towards a greener future for all.
Blue Connections IT is dedicated to achieving a sustainable value chain and operating ecosystem. To meet the needs of a more sustainable future, Blue Connections IT partners with likeminded businesses that are equally committed to achieving sustainability. Bolstered by its partnerships with leading vendors, Blue Connections IT is actively engaged with its suppliers to help them reduce their carbon emissions and is dedicated to achieving a sustainable value chain and operating ecosystem.
For more insight into our environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives at Blue Connections IT, click here.
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