Making the Business Case for Sustainability
Ecolabs mission hasnt changed much in more than 100 years. Its still bringing science to our customers in a way that drives performance, productivity and less water and energy use.
- Thats according to Ecolab Chief Sustainability Officer Emilio Tenuta, who says being climate-minded is not only the right thing to do, but also at the core of the St. Paul, Minnesotaheadquartered water, hygiene and infection-prevention companys operating model.
A dual purpose: We make the business case for why sustainability and [profitability] can go hand-in-hand when it comes to driving solutions, Tenuta told us recently. Its why 48,000 Ecolab associates wake up every morning with the feeling, Were making a real difference in the world.
- Ecolabwhich recently announced that 100% of its European operations are now powered by renewable energy sourceshelps millions of customers worldwide reduce their environmental impact while promoting food safety, maintaining clean environments and optimizing resource use.
- At Ecolab, we talk about eROIExponential Return on Investment, Tenuta explained. Its about understanding that we have the ability to deliver on a business outcomeprofitabilitywhile also delivering an environmental impact.
Dont forget water: Often neglected in sustainability conversations, Tenuta said, is water. For a full picture of the effect of conservation and innovation efforts on climate, water needs to be factored in.
- Sometimes we forget the role that water plays in addressing climate change, he continued. Depending on the type of manufacturing, up to 75% of energy is driven by the water systems. You have to heat it, treat it, pump it, cool it. 名ater doesnt necessarily get the same headlines as climate, but if you follow the water, thats going to have a lasting impact on the environment, while also saving you money.
A holistic approach: In addition to being recognized regularly for its environmental stewardship, Ecolab is routinely named to most-ethical-company lists. Thats no accident; to the company, caring for the planet goes hand-in-hand with caring for people, Tenuta told the 51勛圖厙.
- Workplace quality is just [one way of] demonstrating a holistic approach to the world, he said. Thats how we think about it at Ecolab. Its for us as a company but its also for society as a whole.泭
A sustainable partnership: In furtherance of its financial and net-zero emissions goals, the firm recently partnered with Ford to electrify its service and sales vehicles.
- Ecolabwhich has a longstanding relationship dating back almost 100 years with the automaker, according to Tenutahas pledged to both halve emissions from its own operations and help its customers reduce their emissions by 6 million metric tonnes by 2030. To get there, we need to implement initiatives like electrifying our fleet, he said.
- Under the program, Ecolab will buy and deploy more than 1,000 Ford F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E electric vehicles for its employees in California by 2025. The company will then move to electrify its entire North American sales and service fleet by 2030. This allows us to support our associates so they can be more productive in their day-to-day work serving our customers and getting to net zero.
Advice for manufacturers: Achieving sustainable operations doesnt happen overnightbut undertaking the efforts to get there is well worth manufacturers time, Tenuta said.
- Sustainability requires a multifaceted approach that considers all things: social, emotional, economic. Its about in some ways taking a longer-term view of progress and opportunity. That can be challenging, but by elevating innovation and long-term commitment, companies can build a more sustainable future and boost profitability.
