FETA chairman looks to a business future based on sustainability
Developing a business based on sustainability presents huge challenges, but also huge opportunities. That was the message of Bob Arthur, chairman of the board of FETA (Federation of Environmental Trade Associations), to members and guests at the federation’s annual lunch. Based on his own experience in Marks & Spencer, he said, ‘Sustainable business is good business, as we have found, and doing the right thing will allow you to make money.’
He pointed out that the task for the next decade is to halve carbon emissions — with a growing population — and that much of the reduction will have to come from buildings.
He said, ‘It has been said, ‘we shape our buildings — thereafter they shape us.
‘Never has this been more relevant to how we build. We need robust systems, and they need to be demonstrable — as speed of communication will quickly expose compromise.’
He warned against waiting for legislation to move the industry in the direction it needs to go, stressing that history shows that businesses make the changes, not the consumer. ‘Our industry needs to accept that Government will not make all the decisions for us. We need to recognise the business opportunities the green agenda offers to generate a sustainable future.’
He suggested that companies should be looking to replace their old CSR (corporate social responsibility) statements with a new position statement based on corporate responsibility and sustainability (CRS), which is more relevant in today’s business climate. ‘It makes good business sense and can enhance image and reputation.’
