World class GRC Management Systems incorporate the principles by which global leading business entities govern their performance, specifically, the triple-bottom line of People, Planet and Profit. The first blog emphasized the importance of focus on “People” within a sustainable HSE environment.  In this summary, the focus is “Planet” and the incorporation of sustainable environmental practices.

Organizations are facing increasing pressure and risks from regulatory agencies, investors, business partners and the communities in which they operate to reduce their ecological footprint.  While some of the benefits of this strategy are obvious and continue to gain media attention, some of the changes organizations must consider to become environmentally sustainable are only recognizable benefits in the long term.

As the global economy moves toward a “green” benchmark, the achievement of being environmentally sustainable can be very challenging.  The definition of “green” continues to evolve, change and incorporate more elements and points of impact.

The metrics associated with the definition, analysis and improvement of a “green” strategy could change moderately or drastically over the long term.  In this case, it is imperative that organizations incorporate systems and procedures which will be flexible and scalable as part of their regulatory compliance management.  It is also imperative that the management of change is built upon business and operational efficiencies that will increase productivity and reduce cost and risk.

The achievement of a successful environmental strategy is supported by the executive level and sustained by the diligent focus on long term positive results throughout the business culture.  Organizations can improve their business and competitive advantage through these efforts.  The ultimate focus of these efforts is to utilize the concept of “doing good in order to do well”.