In an ever-evolving landscape of corporate sustainability, the metrics that define success are undergoing a profound transformation. Traditionally anchored in profit margins and financial gains, the concept of success within the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance ) framework is expanding.
As a part of a recent report on corporate sustainability trends (McKinsey & Company, 2022), McKinsey & Company advocates for the integration of social and environmental metrics within corporate operations, challenging companies to synchronize ESG with their core strategic plans across key domains, thus transforming ESG into a strategic imperative rather than a separate process.
In the pursuit of a holistic approach to success, the insights of John Elkington, renowned for introducing the concept of the ‘Triple Bottom Line’ – in his 1997 book Cannibals with Forks: The Triple Bottom Line of 21st Century Business – underscore the necessity for sustainability to transcend its role as a mere adjunct. Departing from compartmentalized initiatives, this perspective advocates for an interconnected strategy wherein financial triumph intertwines seamlessly with positive contributions to the environment and society.
The essence of the ‘Triple Bottom Line’ extends beyond the mechanical integration of social and environmental metrics into Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). This theory prompts a nuanced perspective on success, portraying profit as just one facet in a triad that delineates a company’s authentic success. The holistic integration envisioned propels businesses into a transformative journey, positioning them as architects of positive change across multiple dimensions.
As we navigate the landscape of corporate sustainability, this theory encourages us to recognize that authentic success transcends the narrow pursuit of financial gains. It beckons us to reimagine businesses not as isolated entities chasing profits but as integral contributors to societal and environmental well-being. Embracing this holistic ethos allows companies to chart a course toward a future where success is measured not only in monetary terms but also by the positive and lasting impact woven into the intricate fabric of our global community. The theory serves as a guiding principle, steering businesses toward a more conscientious and sustainable definition of success.
Expanding on Elkington’s vision, the landscape of corporate success is undergoing a significant transformation, especially when seen through the lens of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). This transformative approach reveals a noticeable shift in what investors and stakeholders expect from companies, going beyond the usual focus on financial returns. The GRI standards step in as a guiding tool, urging businesses to navigate the complex terrain of impact disclosure with openness and responsibility.
As we explore this change, the GRI standards signify a move away from traditional measurements, highlighting the importance of companies being more transparent about their commitment to responsible and sustainable practices. In today’s age, stakeholders, who represent a variety of interests, are no longer satisfied with surface-level evaluations; instead, they are asking for a detailed picture of how a company positively influences its surroundings. This change in expectations marks a new era where success is not just about financial profits but also about the genuine and meaningful impact a company has on society and the planet.
In the intricate relationship between corporate strategies and what society expects, this reporting framework offers a vital structure for companies to express their values and promises. Embracing this change means understanding that success, as perceived by investors and stakeholders, is deeply embedded in a company’s ethical foundation. It goes beyond just financial numbers, extending to make a holistic and positive contribution on a global scale.
Embracing change means understanding that success, as perceived by investors and stakeholders, is deeply embedded in a company's ethical foundation. It goes beyond just [the] financials, extending to make a holistic and positive contribution on a global scale.
Delving into a case study spear-headed by industry luminary Bill Gates, Microsoft’s trajectory unfolds as an exemplary narrative of holistic success. Beyond the conventional financial narrative, Gates accentuates the significance of corporate commitments in addressing global challenges. This case study surpasses profit-centric metrics, painting a vivid portrait of success in its redefined form.
Bill Gates’ influence at Microsoft extends beyond financial success, illuminating the company’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. Microsoft’s Tech for Social Impact initiative stands as a testament to how corporations can transcend traditional profit motives and become catalysts for positive change. Through investments in renewable energy, carbon footprint reduction, and a commitment to diversity, Microsoft exemplifies a successful business model intricately entwined with societal well-being and environmental stewardship.
In the pursuit of redefined success, insights from the World Economic Forum (WEF) underscore the catalytic role of transformative technologies. Beyond mere financial efficiency, technologies such as AI-driven energy optimization and blockchain-enabled transparency significantly contribute to environmental conservation. The narrative transcends operational efficiency, emphasizing the incorporation of technology into the very fabric of our success story, steering towards a future where responsible and sustainable business practices are seamlessly intertwined with technological innovation.
The World Economic Forum’s emphasis on technology extends beyond operational efficiency, highlighting its transformative power in shaping a sustainable future. AI technologies, blockchain transparency and even our own brand and implementation platform BrandEye can offer businesses not just tools to meet ESG goals, but avenues to establish new benchmarks for operational excellence, resilience, and accountability. This integration goes beyond a checkbox exercise, propelling businesses towards pioneering standards in an ever-evolving business landscape.
In the pursuit of redefined success, technologies such as AI-driven energy optimization and blockchain-enabled transparency not only contribute to environmental conservation but offer businesses avenues to establish new benchmarks for operational excellence, resilience, and accountability.
Navigating the ever-changing world of corporate success, we’re not just echoing McKinsey’s strategic imperative but weaving together insights from industry heavyweights like Elkington, GRI, Gates, and the WEF. Together, they guide us towards a fresh perspective on success – one that goes beyond the usual measures. This journey isn’t just about financial strength; it’s also about taking care of the environment, promoting societal well-being, and embracing visionary corporate stewardship. As we unpack this complex picture, a new era of corporate success emerges: one that’s intricately connected to the changing fabric of our socio-economic landscape.
One of our key motivations at GLIMMA is to integrate ESG initiatives into the core strategy of the business
Key strategic goals:
OPERATIONS
ECOSYSTEM
PRODUCT
An unequivocal first-sight marker that provides electricity. New Elium recyclable resin® in the manufacture of blades of Megawind turbines.
GLIMMA use water based latex inks or UV-based inks in all printing
GLIMMA use MEGAWIND wind turbines
GLIMMA use H-IONA® low carbon cement
The first available low-carbon cement on the European market for concrete massifs supporting totems, panels and wind turbines.
Pioneering a recyclable system that is zero waste to landfill or incineration and provides a complete sustainable lifecycle service through utilizing existing materials.
Our use of water-based inks significantly reduces VOC emissions, these most often contain a maximum of 30% solvents in the formula. Not only does this reduction protect our planet from pollution, but it also makes for a safer and healthier working environment for operators.
PVC-free films for Maersk trucks
Wrapping for vehicles should be carried out with digital print with laminate (PVC-free solution) from 3M MCS suppliers.
A completely sustainable, PVC-free foil initiative. Through our Global network of trusted partners, we have access to the most innovative cutting-edge, sustainable solutions.
Our use of wood displays and Re-Board Displays encompasses the increasing demand for natural products over PVC materials.
The Breath is a sustainable solution that allows you to reduce bacteria, viruses, and pollution in the environment and at the same time allows you to communicate.
01 SUSTAINABILITY & COVID-19
COVID has clearly had a significant impact on the workplace. Organizations that didn’t have a remote working system in place have been forced to implement those systems rapidly.
In the not too distant future, the world will return to a new normality, but this won’t mean the end of specific systems that were set up during this time. Measures such as remote working have already contributed to a more sustainable workplace, from a reduction in energy and water consumption to reduced travel and a more balanced work life for employees.
Regulations have changed so much – from sanitization to social distancing – that for some companies, it has become inefficient to pursue office operations. We know that office space will be scaled down and that workplace must become more appealing in order to attract the workforce back.
02 EVERYDAY SUSTAINABILITY
Small changes to everyday operations can have a significantly amplified effect within the workplace when it comes to creating a greener working environment, such as:
Current and potential employees (sustainability is high on the agenda of most Millennials) will notice the forward-thinking changes made, making it a more attractive place to work. In the longer term you will find that you’re able to engage better with your existing employees and secure new talent.
Many of these smaller initiatives revolve around human behavior so think about introducing a monthly competition for employees to help set new habits.
'Small changes to everyday operations can have a significantly amplified effect within the workplace, when it comes to creating a greener working environment.'
03 HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY
Technology is used to enable communication, increase the efficiency of workforces around the world and can be utilized to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your workspaces.
Systems such as Nest and Hive provide complete control over the temperature control in your premises; automatic lighting sensors prevent the waste of energy and collaboration technology has reduced the requirement for unnecessary travel for meetings.
Some types of software and technology are more costly than others but the long term benefits and savings make them worthy of investment. Technology of this kind has never been more accessible, and there has also never been a better time to consider incorporating them into your workplace strategy.
For longer term solutions, Facilities Managers are now looking at alternative sources of power.
04 BIOPHILIC DESIGN
Creating a sustainable workplace is about more than just reducing your consumption. In addition to a focus on conserving resources and reducing emissions, biophilic design is a proactive way to create a healthier workplace for everyone and inject a new life force into your spaces.
By adorning offices with natural furnishings like plants and foliage, you’ll be taking steps to increase the amount of oxygen and quality of air in the atmosphere of your offices. Natural décor has also been proven to reduce stress and increase productivity.
Businesses have a genuine duty of care to their employees, and more organizations are taking a proactive approach in ensuring that their place of work is attractive and healthy.
The utilization of biophilic design, along with other facilities like standing desks and hydration points, will significantly increase the attractiveness of the workplace, helping to draw back your employees and keep them well.
'Businesses have a genuine duty of care to their employees, and more organizations are taking a proactive approach in ensuring that their place of work is attractive and healthy.'
05 SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS
Eco-friendly design and sourcing is about using sustainable materials from environmentally friendly suppliers, as well as using innovative eco materials.
We pride ourselves on selecting materials from manufacturers that have long lifecycles and can be recycled and reused. When introducing workplace branding, we strive to use recyclable materials and often refurbish, rather than replace. Workstations can be easily upcycled, much in the same way that home furniture is.
Think durability and longevity when it comes to selecting your furniture:
If you do need to replace items, then recycle rather than send to landfill.
In terms of supply chain, consider the environmental credentials of your vendors- do they have credible sustainability goals and adhere to environmental standards? When sourcing items, aim to resource them locally wherever possible.
In addition to materials selection, interior design can also play an instrumental role, drawing on nature and incorporating outdoors spaces into office design. For example, we helped Arla Foods to actively display their environmental commitments in a comprehensive workplace branding program at their head offices in Denmark and Sweden.
FIND OUT MORE
As one of your largest physical assets, the workplace, be it an office or an industrial site, offers one of the greatest opportunities to contribute to your company’s carbon neutral status.
If you are considering a change in your workplace format, then now is the time to incorporate sustainability into your workplace strategy, We’d be delighted to help with free advice to get you started.
Find out more about our work with clients such as HSBC, Coca-Cola, Nokia and Alitalia, to name a few.
