Sustainability is a strategic mindset that touches every part of an organization. This isn’t just about green cleaning or a few eco-friendly practices—it’s about embedding a “think sustainably” culture into the organization’s DNA.
Making powerful choices
Cultural change begins by rethinking decision evaluation. Traditionally, purchasing has focused on upfront costs and performance. A sustainable mindset asks more profound questions.
Before purchasing new equipment, consider its full lifecycle cost—not just purchase price, but energy and water consumption, maintenance, replacement parts, and end-of-life disposal. Is it
designed for repair or destined for the landfill?
Look at the company behind the product. Is its supply chain ethical? Has it faced environmental or labor violations? By asking these questions, you mitigate the risks associated with partnering with questionable suppliers and make informed ethical choices that enhance brand reputation.
Eliminating waste
A “think sustainably” culture targets waste—defined as any inefficiency that drains resources, whether energy, water, materials, or human.
Why pay for wasted energy? Smart technologies, such as energy-efficient heating, ventilation, thermostats, and HVAC systems, along with LED lighting can significantly reduce electricity use. Low-flow fixtures and efficient cooling or irrigation systems reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance.
In manufacturing, “dematerializing” processes—using fewer materials, minimizing scrap, and maximizing output—save money and resources. In logistics, optimizing delivery routes and investing in fuel-efficient or electric vehicles reduces emissions and operating costs.
Being mindful
The heart of sustainability is mindfulness—toward people and nature. Some organizations view employees as replaceable and communities as resources to exploit.
Sustainable organizations see themselves as part of a larger ecosystem, and they invest in people by offering fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for growth.
Mindfulness also means actively working to protect biodiversity, reduce our environmental footprint, and restore natural resources. This is not just generosity—it’s enlightened self-interest.
Building a strategy
Embedding sustainability into strategy involves integrating holistic decision-making, waste elimination, and mindful stewardship into every level of operations.
For example, procurement teams can prioritize products with third-party environmental certifications. Facilities teams can commit to annual energy and water audits. Operations teams can set goals for reducing packaging waste or increasing recycling rates.
Creating a culture of sustainability means constantly asking: “Is there a better, more sustainable way to do this?” It’s a continuous process—not a one-time project. It requires persistence, creativity, and the willingness to challenge “the way we’ve always done it.”
Learn more by watching a StraightTalk! video at cmmonline.com/think.
