SOURCES FOR A SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT.

• Author: Aviram, Shayb Hezi
• Position: Report

What Is Environmental Sustainability?

Sustainable environment in business refers to all the initiatives of the company that are related to social, corporate and/or environmental sustainability. Practically, the company assesses the business processes and practices in terms of people and profit and, in the same time, seeks out ways to create a positive impact on the social and natural environment.

Companies which started improving their working conditions for the employees and concerned about protecting the environment proved to have also smart long term business strategies. There is a huge potential to eliminate waste and generate cost savings when companies decide to implement environmental sustainability practices and green supply chain. In addition, the eco-friendly businesses, having consumers committed to "going green," first of all benefit of public appreciation and positive opinion and secondly, increased customer's loyalty.

2. Green Environment Mentality Starts in School

   The University of Connecticut, USA, created a survey among its 25,000 students, who were asked to answer to a number of key questions related to "green environment" and their attitude towards this subject. Using this survey, an analysis was done based on the most important questions and the answers given to them, which led to the conclusion that "green environment" mentality starts in school. The analysis took into account the survey's results from three years: 2004, 2006 and 2008.

   1) How important is the environment to you?

   2004 2006 2008 Blank 2% 1% 1% Not at all important 3% 2% 1% Not very important 13% 14% 4% Somewhat important 45% 53% 31% Very important 34% 30% 63% Note: Table made from bar graph. The first analyzed question shows clearly that students become more aware of the importance of environment and do care about it in an increasing percentage. The first conclusion that can be drawn is that educated people do care about the environment.

   2) How important is that the university's buildings will be designed to conserve water and energy?

   2004 2006 2008 Blank 2% 1% 1% Not at all important 2% 2% 1% Not very important 14% 9% 2% Somewhat important 46% 47% 16% Very important 32% 41% 81% Note: Table made from bar graph. 3) How important is that the university uses recycled and recyclable products?

   2004 2006 2008 Blank 6% 1% 1% Not at all important 3% 1% 1% Not very important 13% 10% 2% Somewhat important 38% 41% 19% Very important 39% 46% 76% Note: Table made from...