Why sustainability needs to be communicated effectively

Sustainability is one of the most common aspects of corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects and an aspect which many are now embracing in their day-to-day operations. While incorporating green measures into a CSR programme is important, it is also vital for companies to communicate these initiatives to the public as part of its perception management. If your…

Sustainability is one of the most common aspects of corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects and an aspect which many are now embracing in their day-to-day operations.

While incorporating green measures into a CSR programme is important, it is also vital for companies to communicate these initiatives to the public as part of its perception management. If your sustainability plans are going to be a point of difference between you and your competition, this needs to be conveyed effectively to key stakeholders.

In fact, 85 per cent of companies on the ASX 200, and 100 per cent of those on the ASX 50 are now reporting on their green credentials, according to the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors (ACSI).

With so many different companies clamouring to prove their green credentials, how can you make your business stand out?

The first thing to consider is integrating measures of sustainability into different branches of your corporate communications. For investors, it is important to offer comprehensive accounts of your sustainability work. Other stakeholders like media agencies and the general public can also benefit from a targeted and coordinated approach to sustainability reporting.

Green credentials can also be effectively reported in a more subtle manner, by integrating sustainability measures into existing publications and content. Having newsletters and other printed communications printed on recycled paper, with matching certification, is an easy way to integrate green features.

It may even be worth developing your own sustainability brand, in order to further highlight your company’s environmental credentials. This can involve a variation of your central brand which is tailored to highlight the specifics of your company and your sustainability message.

It is also important to communicate sustainability measures to company employees, so that they are aware of the initiatives your company is undertaking in order to achieve a more sustainable trajectory. These internal communications will be just as important as external ones when it comes to reaching the greatest possible audience.

Taking these small steps can help raise the profile of your sustainability initiatives, while also unlocking greater awareness of your company in general.

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