Sustainability: Essential to Both the Planet and Profit
It’s a simple truth that our continued existence depends on the health of the Earth. That alone is reason enough for organizations to have a solid commitment to sustainability. But the concept is also an essential element in supporting a thriving business environment. While sustainability goes hand-in-hand with our mission and core values, we also believe it to be key to our longevity. Environmental stewardship is as important to CI’s success as our continued focus on technology and innovation.
More businesses and their customers are recognizing the effectiveness, safety, and environmental benefits of using products that are eco-friendly. Our sustainability approach has allowed us to reach out to that community and help them achieve their own sustainability goals. Following are some examples.
Customer Feedback Initiates Change
A few years ago, we started getting asked about using fire-resistant fluid in our machines. This prompted us to contact suppliers and manufacturers who regularly use fire-resistant fluid for their advice. Following this, we secured samples for testing. We were surprised to find no performance difference between the fluid and conventional hydraulic oils. We were so pleased with the result that we began offering the solution in-house.
Enter our FireSafe Eco Fluid. It’s a synthetic, biodegradable chemical mix that was designed to not just boost performance but adhere to environmental protection, too. Our customers gained peace of mind and know that they aren’t poisoning the environment with every mishap. FireSafe becomes entirely inert in under 30 days.
As a bonus, insurance companies are much happier with the reduced risk of using non-flammable solutions, so our customers began saving on their insurance premiums as well. The product’s reception remains more than pleasing. It’s also proof that there is growth and profits in offering sustainable products and services.
Sustainability and the Supply Chain
Research indicates that the business case for insisting on sustainable supply chains is growing. Choosing to manage and improve the social, economic and environmental performance of our supply chains allows more companies to conserve resources. Other results include optimized processes, product innovations, lowered costs, boosted productivity and enhanced corporate values.
More companies are expanding their sustainability programs to include their suppliers. Yet they often struggle with the implementation of such programs.
Admittedly, putting sustainability into a supply chain is more complex than it sounds. However, the failure and inability to act might be the biggest risk of all. Here are some suggestions on getting started.
1. Map Out Your Supply Chains
Most organizations don’t have a full understanding of the impacts their supply chain can have on sustainability. A good first step would be assessing inventory suppliers. Your business must identify the most relevant environmental and social challenges they are facing. Afterward, measures must be put in place to prioritize efforts with suppliers.
2. Communicate Your Expectations
An excellent way of communicating corporate values and culture to suppliers and customers is by focusing on sustainability within your own supply chain. Actively establish and communicate your expectations with a supplier code of conduct. It can function as a critical step in involving suppliers in your sustainability efforts.
Environmental Stewardship
At CI, we’re always working to improve on our proud heritage. We do this by ensuring our company delivers high-quality machine tools that provide the most innovative solutions. We continuously seek to strike a healthy balance between serving our employees, partners and customers. Taking a strong approach toward protection of the environment enhances the value we offer every stakeholder—from our local community to the entire planet.
