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Eco-Economic
where environmental and economic issues meet.
These Performance Indicators focus attention on key areas such as:
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Resource Efficiency issues.
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Energy Efficiency issues.
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Global Energy issues.
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:
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Increasing product or service value.
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Optimising the use of resources.
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Reducing environmental impact.
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Due to 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.
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Reaping the benefits |
- Reduced costs - through more efficient use of energy and materials.
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Reduced risk and liability - by "designing out" the need for toxic substances.
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Increased revenue - by developing innovative products and increasing market share.
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Enhanced brand image - through marketing and communicating your improvement efforts.
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Increased productivity and employee morale - through closer alignment of company values with the personal values of the employees.
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Improved environmental performance - by reducing toxic emissions, and increasing the recovery and reuse of "waste" material.
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Company-wide Commitment equals 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.
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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.
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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.
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Production and Distribution - optimising the use of materials and resources, minimizing waste, and offering remanufacturing/refurbishing services provides your company with cost savings opportunities and opens new markets.
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Facilities Management - implementing recycling programs, improving building efficiency and site management processes motivates employees and improves the company image while reducing operational costs.
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