The big question for every CEO is “does this sustainability thing really work?”

Well the simple answer is YES.  The top 100 ASX organisations are introducing sustainability into their everyday business practice and publicly reporting against targets.  Employees now chose organisations for their environmental credentials and whether or not they are a ‘good corporate citizen’.

However the CFO’s question is to know “what are the costs and what are the financial benefits?”  Any organisation that reduces the amount of material to produce the same amount or who reduces sick leave or improves the staff retention rate will see the financial benefits.

If this doesn’t convince you check out the list of benefits organisations have reported after they have implemented sustainability programs in their organisations:

Financial

• Reduced energy and water usage and costs
• Reduced paper, waste and associated costs
• Reduced materials in production of products
• Grants available for improved sustainability practices
• Visibility of performance of buildings due to mandatory reporting 

Human Resources and Employee Engagement

• Improved working conditions
• Increase productivity
• Improved attraction and retention of staff
• Increased staff loyalty
• Reduced costs associated with improved HR outcomes

Brand and Reputation

• Improved corporate social responsibility performance
• Reduced liability and risk management
• Improved competitiveness and market positioning
• Increased marketability

Environmental

• Reduction in carbon footprint
• Paper and resource efficiency
• Reduced emissions
• Strong position to influence supply chain.