A full guide to the factors a business should consider when addressing sustainability concerns

As businesses increasingly recognise the importance of sustainability, the focus on reducing carbon footprints has become paramount. In 2022 alone, UK businesses were said to account for around 18.7% of all carbon dioxide emissions. So, it is important to consider certain factors, such as energy usage, transportation, and the supply chain, to address areas of improvement for the office’s carbon footprint.

This guide will summarise all the information in the sustainability factors hub , and explore what businesses should consider when looking to lower their carbon footprint.

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Find out how office energy usage affects sustainability, and ways to remedy the impact.

Discover the different office products to consider that may be affecting the carbon footprint.

Find out how to address transportation factors in a business sustainable plan.

Browse through our top tips for sustainable office working.

Find out more about how to become net zero and the factors that businesses should consider.

How does energy usage affect sustainability in the office?

Excessive energy consumption not only contributes to environmental degradation but also poses financial risks. Rising energy costs can impact the profitability of a business, making it imperative for business owners to adopt sustainable energy practices.

Lowering energy usage directly translates to reduced operational costs. Businesses implementing energy-efficient measures experience long-term financial benefits, contributing to overall sustainability. In addition, businesses across the UK follow government guidelines and contribute to the nation’s sustainability goals.

Read more about how energy usage affects office sustainability here.

To address energy consumption issues, consider utilising power distribution products to help ensure your office space is connected efficiently.

Our recommended power distribution product:

Betatrak Powertrack


Shop the Betatrak Powertrack here.

How office products affect sustainability

As a business owner, your choices regarding computers, lighting, power distribution, and workstation power items significantly influence your environmental impact. Consider products that have been locally sourced and, where applicable, have a good energy efficiency rating.

The lighting in your office plays a crucial role in both productivity and energy consumption. Traditional incandescent bulbs are energy-intensive and have a short lifespan. Transitioning to LED lighting not only reduces energy consumption but also lowers maintenance costs due to their extended lifespan.

Other office equipment considerations include:

  • Power distribution: Standby power waste can be avoided by switching to energy-efficient power distribution solutions.
  • Workstation power: This includes on-desk, in-desk, and under-desk modules which are required for employees to remain connected and powered at all times.

Read more about the different office equipment that affects sustainability.

What transportation considerations should you make and implement in offices?

Business owners should ask themselves, and that of their employees, certain questions to ascertain transportation factors:

  • How are employees travelling to work?
  • How often does your business travel?
  • Are your suppliers committed to net zero?

Once business owners recognise areas that can be improved, actions can be implemented in order to lower the overall office carbon footprint. Firstly, it is important to identify the different scopes of greenhouse gases and how transportation may affect this:

  • Scope one: This refers to greenhouse gas emissions directly emitted by company-controlled or owned sources. Regarding transportation, this would include any emissions from company fleet vehicles (if petrol or diesel-powered).
  • Scope three: This emission type refers to any company activity unrelated to purchased energy, including business travel, transportation, and distribution.

Browse our recommendations for reducing your office carbon footprint with transportation factors below:

how to reduce your office carbon footprint


Read more about how transportation affects office sustainability here.

Top tips for sustainable office working

There are simple ways your business can address these concerns to promote environmental friendliness and, in doing so, attract potential employees, partners, clients, and other like-minded suppliers. Here are our top tips for sustainable office working:

  1. Look at sustainable office equipment: Make sure to conduct regular energy audits to identify areas for improvement and invest in renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines where feasible.
  2. Consider obtaining environmental certification: An ISO 14001, the world’s most recognised environmental management system, helps businesses reduce their environmental impact and demonstrates commitment to sustainability.
  3. Promote sustainable transportation options: Provide incentives for carpooling, cycling, walking, or using public transportation. Install bike racks and showers to support active commuting.
  4. Educate employees on the best environmental practices: Consider providing training sessions or workshops on topics such as recycling, energy conservation, and eco-friendly commuting options.
  5. Consider ergonomics in office design: Choose furniture and ergonomic office equipment made from sustainable materials, and that are specifically designed for comfort and durability.

Read more about the best ways to implement a sustainable office working environment here.

What factors should businesses consider when implementing net zero strategies?

Achieving net zero is an environmental decision and a strategic business move that can lead to significant economic, social, and regulatory benefits. Companies must conduct a thorough assessment of their current carbon footprint, identifying major sources of emissions across their operations, supply chain, and product lifecycle. This evaluation forms the foundation for setting realistic but ambitious targets.

A net zero strategy involves a combination of reducing energy consumption, investing in renewable energy sources, and improving operational efficiencies. For emissions that cannot be eliminated, companies might consider carbon offset measures.

Key factors include:

  • Financial planning
  • Educating employees, customers and other businesses
  • Adopting new technologies and processes to reduce carbon emissions

Read more about factors that businesses should consider on the road to net zero here.

CMD are a British manufacturer that provides locally sourced solutions that meet the challenges of power integration in office and commercial spaces. We offer a range of ergonomic office equipment, from underfloor power tracks and distribution systems, to monitor arms and cable management solutions.

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