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Eco-efficiency What is Eco-efficiency? | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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IC - e2 - What is Eco-efficiency?Eco-efficiency is increasingly becoming a key requirement for success in business. The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) describes eco-efficiency as a management strategy of doing more with less. In practice, eco-efficiency is achieved through the pursuit of three core objectives:
Because of the opportunity for cost savings associated with each of these objectives, addressing them makes good business sense. In fact, case studies of companies that have adopted eco-efficient technologies and practices demonstrate that eco-efficiency stimulates productivity and innovation, increases competitiveness and improves environmental performance. Reaping the Benefits Eco-efficiency offers a number of practical benefits for your business, including
Company-wide Commitment = Company-wide Benefits Achieving the benefits listed above requires a commitment to eco-efficiency throughout the various divisions, departments and functions of your business. The return on investment is achievable benefits in all areas of your business, including: Management-viewing your company's activities through an eco-efficient lens can reveal hidden costs and unexploited opportunities. Better information supports better decisions, which can lead to competitive advantage in the marketplace. Design and development-reducing material and energy intensity of your products and services, and increased product durability results in cost savings for your business and your customers. Purchasing-working with other business functions to reduce hazardous and/or toxic materials used in processes and facilities, reduces costs associated with employee health and safety, and waste disposal. Accounting-tracking costs and benefits of managing your environment impacts and improvements, results in more informed decision-making and strategic planning. Marketing and Communications-providing your customers, stakeholders and investors with updates on your productivity improvements and innovations improves brand image, and can attract new customers and financing. Production and Distribution-optimizing the use of materials and resources, minimizing waste, and offering remanufacturing/refurbishing services provides your company with cost savings opportunities and opens new markets. Facilities Management-implementing recycling programs, improving building efficiency and site management processes motivates employees and improves the company image while reducing operational costs. |
Created: 2005-06-06 Updated: 2005-11-03 |
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