Benefits of Sustainability
Sustainability has many benefits that can be applied to any business, in any region, and at a minimal cost.
Improved financial performance: A recent longitudinal Harvard University study has found that “stakeholder balanced” companies showed four times the growth rate and eight times employment growth when compared to companies that focused only on shareholders and profit maximization.
Enhanced brand image & reputation: A company considered socially responsible can benefit -both by its enhanced reputation with the public, as well as its reputation within the business community, increasing a company’s ability to attract capital and trading partners. For example, a 1997 study by two Boston College management professors found that excellent employee, customer and community relations are more important than strong shareholder returns in earning corporations a place an Fortune magazine’s annual “Most Admired Companies” list.
Increased sales and customer loyalty:A number of studies have suggested a large and growing market for the products and services of companies perceived to be socially responsible. While businesses must first satisfy customers’ key buying criteria – such as price, quality, appearance, taste, availability, safety and convenience. Studies also show a growing desire to buy based on other value-based criteria, such as ” sweatshop-free” and “child labor-free” clothing, products with smaller environmental impact, and absence of genetically modified materials or ingredients.
Enhanced brand image & reputation: A company considered socially responsible can benefit -both by its enhanced reputation with the public, as well as its reputation within the business community, increasing a company’s ability to attract capital and trading partners. For example, a 1997 study by two Boston College management professors found that excellent employee, customer and community relations are more important than strong shareholder returns in earning corporations a place an Fortune magazine’s annual “Most Admired Companies” list.
Increased sales and customer loyalty:A number of studies have suggested a large and growing market for the products and services of companies perceived to be socially responsible. While businesses must first satisfy customers’ key buying criteria – such as price, quality, appearance, taste, availability, safety and convenience. Studies also show a growing desire to buy based on other value-based criteria, such as ” sweatshop-free” and “child labor-free” clothing, products with smaller environmental impact, and absence of genetically modified materials or ingredients.
Increased ability to attract and retain employees: Companies perceived to have strong Sustainability commitments often find it easier to recruit employees, particularly in tight labor markets. Retention levels may be higher too, resulting in a reduction in turnover and associated recruitment and training costs. Tight labor markets as well the trend toward multiple jobs for shorter periods of time are challenging companies to develop ways to generate a return on the consideration resources invested in recruiting, hiring, and training.
Reduced regulatory oversight: Companies that demonstrate that they are engaging in practices that satisfy and go beyond regulatory compliance requirements are being given less scrutiny and freer reign by both national and local government entities. In many cases, such companies are subject to fewer inspections and paperwork, and may be given preference or “fast-track” treatment when applying for operating permits, zoning variances or other forms of governmental permission.
Easier access to capital: The Social Investment Forum reports that, in the U.S. in 1999, there is more than $2 trillion in assets under management in portfolios that use screens linked to ethics, the environment, and sustainability. It is clear that companies addressing ethical, social, and environmental responsibilities have rapidly growing access to capital that might not otherwise have been available.
Reduced regulatory oversight: Companies that demonstrate that they are engaging in practices that satisfy and go beyond regulatory compliance requirements are being given less scrutiny and freer reign by both national and local government entities. In many cases, such companies are subject to fewer inspections and paperwork, and may be given preference or “fast-track” treatment when applying for operating permits, zoning variances or other forms of governmental permission.
Easier access to capital: The Social Investment Forum reports that, in the U.S. in 1999, there is more than $2 trillion in assets under management in portfolios that use screens linked to ethics, the environment, and sustainability. It is clear that companies addressing ethical, social, and environmental responsibilities have rapidly growing access to capital that might not otherwise have been available.
Benefits of Sustainability