This episode of People's Planet Podcast welcomes Simon Morris, a sustainability professional with a background in Earth and Environmental Science. Transitioning from academia to the business world, Simon offers a unique perspective on integrating sustainable practices into small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Join Marcel, the host,and Simon for an insightful discussion packed with practical takeaways that will empower businesses to embark on their sustainability journeys.

Key Insights:

• Sustainability as a Business Advantage: While environmental responsibility is a core driver, SMEs can leverage sustainability for a competitive edge. Optimizing processes (reducing waste, using less energy) often leads to cost savings. Additionally, customers are increasingly drawn to companies with strong sustainability practices.
• The Power of Collaboration: Large companies have more resources for sustainability initiatives. However,SMEs can collaborate with each other or larger companies to share knowledge, access resources, and amplify their impact.
• Data for Actionable Change: While measuring environmental impact can be complex, focusing on readily available data (e.g., energy bills, waste generation) can be a good starting point. This data can then be used to identify areas for improvement and track progress over time.
• Behavioral Change: A Catalyst for Bigger Shifts: The episode emphasizes starting with small behavioral changes. However, these seemingly insignificant actions can create a ripple effect, influencing broader company culture and encouraging further sustainability initiatives.
• Transparency Builds Trust: Communicating sustainability efforts openly, even if they're in early stages, fosters trust with customers and stakeholders.

Compelling Examples:

• The episode mentions the success of the plastic bag tax. Initially met with resistance, it highlights how small policy changes can lead to significant behavioral shifts over time.
• The example of Simon's company switching to renewable energy and biofuels showcases how even SMEs can make impactful changes within their control.

Encouraging Action:

The episode doesn't just highlight challenges; it offers practical steps for SMEs:

• Start with a Sustainability Audit: Identify areas with the most significant environmental impact (e.g., energy use, waste generation).
• Seek Guidance: Many resources are available online or through local sustainability organizations to help SMEs get started.
• Focus on Continuous Improvement: Sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate progress while always looking for new ways to improve.

By incorporating these insights and actionable steps, this episode empowers listeners, particularly those running SMEs,to take concrete steps towards a more sustainable future.

Contact us: peoplesplanetpodcast@gmail.com

Hosts:

Marcelle Batson-Warner

Simon Morris

Dr Usman Sikander