Sustainability in Business

Many of you won't know I studied for four years in Environmental Science and then a further 3 years part-time to achieve an MSc in Environmental Management while already in full time employment in the Pharmaceuticals sector. 

What I didn't realise at the time as once you are headed down a particular path (Pharmaceuticals) it is very hard to jump ship and start down another one (Environmental). The way I like to look at it is - two trains with multiple carriages running on tracks parallel to each other, I started at the back of one and had made my way towards the front of the train by two carriages but the only way to get on to the train beside was to jump onto the back carriage and start over again. 

The two tracks never cross over, I had a Masters and degree in Science and that was all that was relevant not the growth in skills or personal development it wasn't considered to be transferrable.

In 2018 I didn't just jump trains, I jumped countries ( I hope I haven't lost you with my analogy). When I had made the decision to leave my science career behind one which I'd studied over 7 years for and cost thousands of pounds, I often thought what a waste!

Now being in business coming up to 5 years the new skills I have learned could never have been taught. The ever changing world of business and in fact the world itself has nearly brought me in full circle. I studied the Environment because I care about it, and the world we pass on to our children and it amazes me. Now running my own business I see where improvements can be made in everyday business actions that if every business could take the same approach we could begin progress or rather slow down the current rate of deterioration. 

A few examples of changes I have recently made:

• Asking customers to donate used gift bags, there is limited recycling for these so I have started a box of them in the shop and ask for a charity donation instead.
• I have started posting all online orders in Kraft paper instead of plastic postage bags.
• Recycle all packaging from suppliers where it can be.
• Reuse as much packaging as possible instead of throwing it out
• Use coffee pods in the staff room which I collect and send back to be recycled.
• Use recycled Kraft paper carrier bags if a customer needs one.
• Not printing invoices or delivery notes unless essential.
• Not printing order confirmations for online orders.

The next two changes on my list to implement are an alternative to plastic bubble wrap and events to swap or sell on clothes - as I am very aware of the fast fashion culture we live in.

I have noticed many changes in the last 5 years my suppliers have been making - notably reducing packaging, email only invoices/delivery notes and packing which can be recycled. This is only the beginning of my journey into a sustainable business and one I am thoroughly enjoying jumping two footed into. I know everyone won't be as keen to research and make the changes as I am, but even a wiggle of the toe in the right direction is a start. 

I will keep you all update with any further changes in future!