Small Business Sustainability: It Can Be Done

A visit to Vancouver’s recent West End BIA (Business Improvement Association) Sustainability Expo confirmed my belief that sustainable development is grassroots-driven with growing traction. It’s truly encouraging given that this neighbourhood is one of the most densely populated areas in North America.
The June 26th event, held at the Empire Landmark Hotel, featured comprehensive commentary and practical information from a knowledgeable group of panelists regarding sustainable business practices, strategies, and resources. The first panel discussion, Sustainable Business Practices in the Real World, consisted of speakers from Vancouver businesses spearheading sustainable development, proving that it can be done:

• VanCity, Canada’s largest credit union, has long practiced triple-bottom line approach to business before it became fashionable. In fact, it runs the VanCity Community Foundation to support community economic development and also became carbon neutral as of December 31, 2007 – two years ahead of schedule.
• Fairware Promotional Products, co-founded by Denise Taschereau (former director of sustainability and community for Mountain Equipment Co-op), provides ethically, organic, and biodegradable promotional products for businesses with a commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Fairware created their Supplier Code of Conduct, modeled on the Fair Labor Association’s Code of Conduct.
• Another homegrown company dedicated to sustainable development is Frogfile. This one-stop shop provides environmentally responsible office supplies because, simply put by Frogfile, “it’s good for your planet and it’s good for your business”. The company is able to stand behind the quality of its products, at comparable prices, because it sources products from only those manufacturers that align with the values of Frogfile – financial, social, and environmental responsibility.

A different group of panelists for the second discussion, Practical Strategies for Sustainability, agreed upon five key drivers that are moving businesses towards sustainability:
1. cost savings
2. competition and branding
3. consumer demand
4. current employee morale / new employee demand
5. regulation
Indeed, commented Eileen Keenan, “the level of knowledge has increased. People conduct a lot of research and raise intelligent questions before attending the home services programs and workshops held at the Light House Sustainability Building Centre” located on Granville Island. The non-profit society provides education, training and outreach programs that foster a deeper awareness of and commitment to sustainable building practices.
Donovan Woollard, Chief Operating Officer of Offsetters Climate Neutral Society, remarked that, “it’s become evident that businesses can now readily grasp the critical thinking required to weigh the upfront costs versus long-term savings”. The consulting firm works with individuals and organizations who seek to reduce their climate impact. Clients can purchase carbon offsets which not only offset direct emissions but also promote the adoption of next generation energy systems, investment projects verified by third parties.
To get a start on going green, Amy Robinson of The Sustainability Purchasing Network, recommended that small businesses first take a look at its values, strategy, and what can be done immediately. For example, “learn from high volume purchases that not only affect your business costs but also your customers and community”.
Keenan added that businesses should look at reducing energy/electricity costs and follow the tips offered by BC Hydro. In a separate presentation, Christy Intihar recommended the following from BC Hydro’s Power Smart Program:

• Shut off all computers (big energy hog) and lights when you leave the office.
• Change all bulbs that flicker or hum (T-12s) to T-8 fluorescent bulbs.
• Use LED bulbs for all exit signs which last 10-25 years and can yield lifetime savings up to $300 per sign.

Moreover, the Power Smart Program, in partnership with the B.C. Government’s LiveSmart BC, offers a complimentary 30-60 minute energy walkthrough of your business. The energy expert provides a mini-business case on your office electricity and gas heating consumption and recommendations to save money while contributing to environmental sustainability.
But the highlight of the day? Keynote speaker David Van Seters, Founder and CEO of Small Potatoes Urban Delivery. This man is truly inspirational, not just because SPUD can deliver organic, natural and fair trade produce, 50% certified, at comparable prices of regular grocery stores. Not just because he’s grown a 4-person food delivery business in 1998 into an organization serving 20+ locales with organic and natural produce throughout North America. And not just because SPUD yields 40% savings in green house gas emissions versus its customers driving to purchase groceries.
SPUD is deemed to have created the tipping point in organic produce and became carbon neutral in 2007. In some respects it’s not surprising because Van Seters built the business from the ground up focused on environmental and social values – encompassing customers, employees, and suppliers. He commented that he and his team operate from a higher social purpose. That may sound quite lofty to some people. However, it’s clear that running a business responsibly – socially and environmentally – is sustainable.
The upshot? In the words of Van Seters, “business can make a difference, if they want to, and they have a lot of influence to do so”. Food for thought (no pun intended).