Understanding the Concept of Sustainability

Incorporating sustainable standards in a corporation’s branding and identity can open new possibilities and an increase in demand. However, there is still the factor of actually adopting and implementing these values.

There are many ways to embrace sustainable practices in metropolitan areas, commercial spaces, and even at home. Chris Baskind of Mother Nature Network even highlights 12 easy-to-follow methods to a greener 21st century. Ultimately, these techniques are planned, adapted, and applied in an utterly effective and comprehensive fashion starting off with the construction industry.

Sustainable Practices in the UK’s Construction Industry

Basically, green initiatives, more often than not, are implemented: a) for cost-efficiency and b) to adhere to certain environmental laws and requirements. In general, a more ecological space goes far beyond the walls of an establishment, giving more meaning to its context. To add to that, there are specific key areas in which corporations – big or small – are using sustainable practices.

1) Urban Planning (Metropolitan Areas)

From a greater urban planning standpoint, excellent sustainable standards are reflected by an efficient public transportation system. One such example is the London Underground.

According to Transport for London, “sustainability is central” to the way the city works. Anyone from tourists and locals alike can see how the world famous London Underground Tube fits into the fabric of its surroundings, creating a well-organised network. In other words, not only does it make the best of the environmental, social, and economic advantages, it also minimises the negative impacts.

2) Suppliers (Commercial Spaces)

Other than the actual responsibility in terms of operational ethics, sustainability in a restaurant setting, for instance, reflects the concerted effort to partner with the right producers. Case in point: London’s T. E. D Restaurant.

Jamie Grainger-Smith is the brainchild of the aforementioned commercial space and set up a network that links reliable suppliers to sustainable restaurants. Most of these are family-oriented businesses, making them truly trustworthy and ensure that money is being invested in the local economy. The idea is to support and utilise people, local suppliers for that matter, who genuinely care about what they do.

3) Design (Basic Household)

To further understand the concept of sustainability, it is also important to focus on a smaller, home-based perspective with regards to design. One of the first things that come to mind when talking about the subject is the use of paint.

A lot of people nowadays prefer paints and finishes with a low percentage of non-volatile organic compounds (VOC) to improve indoor air quality. To a certain extent this is also a consideration that many homeowners put into practice when it comes to things like painting outdoor fences. From the list of paints on Screwfix it’s easy to see that many companies including Ronseal have now moved to low odour or odour free paints so that they adhere to environmental regulations. This essential design feature not only enhances the overall look of a home, it also observes sustainable obligations by having low or free of VOC. Journalist Jonny Williamson even underlines the increasing popularity of paint recycling, a system that also promotes sustainable standards in the UK.

In summary, it is has been proven on many occasions that consumers feel more committed to a company or an institution when values are shared. In terms of sustainability, as well as all the related concepts, practices, and standards, it strikes a chord when an institution has a definite concern about one’s well-being and the safety and welfare of the planet they live in.

Evidently, the overall topic of sustainability needs more than just simple adjustments here and there. It requires people to open their eyes and see the world as more than just a network of people and shared ideas. Sustainable practices, whether in the general public, the workplace, or at home, entail a great deal of cooperation, devotion, and above all concern.

For more articles on sustainability, case studies, and latest news regarding the wide world of design, keep up to date with everything here on PSS Magazine.