Liat Lachish Levy, the CEO of ChickP, is at the forefront of pioneering 90% pure chickpea protein isolate for sustainable and quality food. Despite some warnings of a backlash against sustainability, the environmental, social, and governance issues that support the concept are becoming increasingly important for businesses. Investors, regulators, and consumers are seeking information about the broader impact that companies have beyond their products and services.
The integration of ESG priorities into every company is becoming necessary as sustainability can lead to cost savings, higher productivity, competitiveness, lower risks, and increased resilience. Startups, especially those in the early stages, have the advantage of being able to build sustainability into their business operations from the beginning. While this may seem daunting, even small actions can set a strong and enduring sustainability foundation worth it in the long run.
Startups should focus on setting a strong business foundation, defining their vision, values, and guiding principles, and aligning them with clear policies, processes, and quality controls. They should also pick focus areas by engaging with customers, considering product benefits, familiarizing with regulations, and aligning with international sustainability goals. Defining goals and planning to achieve them is crucial, along with appointing a sustainability point person to track progress and communicate with stakeholders.
Measuring and documenting everything related to ESG priority areas is essential, as it helps businesses understand their performance, compare with peers, and improve where needed. Strategies should evolve as the business grows, as sustainability is an ongoing process of small steps that lead to significant impact. By following these steps, startups can effectively integrate sustainability into their operations, meet stakeholder expectations, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Forbes Business Council, a leading growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders, provides valuable resources and support for companies looking to embrace sustainability. As the link between sustainability and business performance becomes more apparent, it is crucial for startups to incorporate ESG priorities into their operations from the beginning to achieve long-term success and make a positive impact on the world.
