Post by account_disabled on Feb 22, 2024 0:11:50 GMT -5
I devote a large portion of my column to discussing the confusing terminology in our field . The fact that the same term is used to refer to such a diverse range of SDGs is a testament to the relative youth of our field . Even a term as simple as "tool" can mean something completely different . So you can imagine how a more complex term like “ product portfolio analysis ” can cause dizziness and confusion . It ’s a melting pot of sustainable options . Now I have another clear example of how the sheer number of things encompassed by the word “ sustainability ” itself creates confusion, perception and, more importantly , budget shortfalls for sustainability .
Addressing the role of the sustainability manager
But first, some role play … Imagine you are a happy health and safety manager with an engineering background and 20 years of experience at a large manufacturing company . Your role is to handle things that you generally understand and are confident about . What happens when your boss adds the word “sustainability ” to your already complex role What ? Congratulations on your Bulgaria WhatsApp Number appointment as our new Health, Safety and Sustainability Manager ! You might start with things you know about that can produce quick results , such as light bulbs and recycling programs . You'll then start learning about more complex things, such as improving energy management and reducing waste impact. But here ’s the thing : There are many facets to “ sustainability, ” and perhaps managing energy and reducing waste isn’t the most effective way for companies to achieve ROI . But again , you don't have the time or ability to worry about that right now . All you can really think about is what you can traditionally control and the KPIs and budgets that need to be met .
Now try this : You are a young marketing professional who has been with the company for 4 years. You are ambitious, energetic, and have big plans for how to impact the company . When you get your MBA , you take sustainable business courses , which are fun and exciting . You want to pay off your debt . You want to be part of a global community. You want to find a way to impact your company 's contribution to the world .
The marketing department is tasked with developing the company's first sustainability report ( CSR) , and you volunteer to participate in the project . Over the next year, you will help prepare the company's first report , which is filled with metrics , short- and long-term goals , and lots of beautiful photos of happy , Smiling children and green corn fields blown by the pollution-free breeze . You are indeed contributing to the company's sustainable development , and the company's stakeholders (especially shareholders ) are happy to know that " sustainability " is on the company's agenda .
Addressing the role of the sustainability manager
But first, some role play … Imagine you are a happy health and safety manager with an engineering background and 20 years of experience at a large manufacturing company . Your role is to handle things that you generally understand and are confident about . What happens when your boss adds the word “sustainability ” to your already complex role What ? Congratulations on your Bulgaria WhatsApp Number appointment as our new Health, Safety and Sustainability Manager ! You might start with things you know about that can produce quick results , such as light bulbs and recycling programs . You'll then start learning about more complex things, such as improving energy management and reducing waste impact. But here ’s the thing : There are many facets to “ sustainability, ” and perhaps managing energy and reducing waste isn’t the most effective way for companies to achieve ROI . But again , you don't have the time or ability to worry about that right now . All you can really think about is what you can traditionally control and the KPIs and budgets that need to be met .
Now try this : You are a young marketing professional who has been with the company for 4 years. You are ambitious, energetic, and have big plans for how to impact the company . When you get your MBA , you take sustainable business courses , which are fun and exciting . You want to pay off your debt . You want to be part of a global community. You want to find a way to impact your company 's contribution to the world .
The marketing department is tasked with developing the company's first sustainability report ( CSR) , and you volunteer to participate in the project . Over the next year, you will help prepare the company's first report , which is filled with metrics , short- and long-term goals , and lots of beautiful photos of happy , Smiling children and green corn fields blown by the pollution-free breeze . You are indeed contributing to the company's sustainable development , and the company's stakeholders (especially shareholders ) are happy to know that " sustainability " is on the company's agenda .