By Jessy Servi Ortiz, Managing Director of the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council, which is owned and operated by the Wisconsin MEP (Manufacturing Extension Partnership)

Polaris MEP is the Rhode Island Center for the MEP National Network^TM, whose mission it is to strengthen and empower small and medium-sized manufacturing companies in the United States.

Manufacturers face rising pressure from consumers, retailers, investors, and regulators to act on sustainability and verify their products and practices. Given the array of issues related to sustainability, navigating the demands can be complex and resource-intensive.

For well over a decade, Wisconsin has been working on a solution that cuts through the complexity and helps companies develop and enhance their sustainability or environmental, social, and governance (ESG) actions, saving them time and money and helping retain customers, find new customers, and attract and retain employees.

The Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (part of the MEP National Network™) works with strategic partners, and the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council (WSBC), to provide additional services and information to Wisconsin manufacturers.

Last year’s WSBC Conference was held in Madison, Wisconsin, and was a sold-out event. The programming emphasized businesses’ role in shaping a sustainable future and showcased success stories that integrated sustainability into core values. This highlighted not only the environmental benefits but also the positive impact on the bottom line.

A business case for sustainability from the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council Conference

In today’s fast-changing business environment, sustainability is more than a buzzword; it’s a strategic imperative that transforms operations and success. Companies at the conference are there to share the value they are seeing in sustainability.

From environmental stewardship to social responsibility, businesses are increasingly recognizing the myriad benefits that sustainable practices offer.

A few examples include:

• Cost savings and efficiency: Sustainability often goes hand in hand with resource efficiency. When you invest in energy-efficient technology, streamlined operations, and waste elimination, these actions positively impact the bottom line.
• Enhanced reputation and market access: Consumers are becoming more discerning and actively seeking out businesses with commitment to sustainability. A positive environmental and social impact can greatly boost a company’s reputation and open up previously unrecognized market opportunities.
• Regulatory compliance and risk mitigation: Sustainability initiatives often align with, and sometimes even preempt, changing regulatory landscapes. Adopting tracking systems helps ensure compliance, reduces legal risks, and is crucial for companies operating within the European Union. Additionally, sustainable practices help companies mitigate potential risks associated with resource scarcity, supply chain disruptions, and other environmental challenges associated with a changing climate.
• Employee engagement and talent attraction: Businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability are more likely to attract and retain top talent. Employees are more engaged when their work contributes to the greater good, which fosters a positive and productive workplace culture.
• Innovation and market differentiation: Sustainability can drive innovation. Companies that prioritize sustainability are often forced to think creatively about their processes, products, and services. This commitment to innovation not only helps businesses stay ahead of the curve but also positions them as industry leaders. Sustainable practices can be a powerful differentiator in a competitive market, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and setting your brand apart. 

The path to sustainability: Resources and support

Video recordings from the Textile Sustainability Forum presented by RITIN, URI & Polaris MEP are one way for manufacturers to educate themselves about the possibilities and benefits of sustainability.

Like Polaris MEP, the WSBC provides resources and support for businesses looking to adopt and integrate sustainable practices. This includes access to an ESG and sustainability network for sharing best practices and staying updated on the latest trends.

Educational webinars, workshops, and networking opportunities are an important part of the process. This creates a community that aligns businesses with a sustainability focused framework. It provides the tools, knowledge, and support system for manufacturing to thrive in an increasingly competitive and eco-conscious market.

For example, the Rhode Island Textile Innovation Network (RITIN) sponsors an annual look at textile sustainability, with education and inspiration coming from academia as well as industry. These Forums are free to all to attend and many of the presentations are captured in videos on the Polaris MEP website. 

A sustainable tomorrow starts today

As businesses worldwide grapple with the challenges of a changing climate and heightened environmental awareness, the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council — like MEPs across the US and Polaris MEP in Rhode Island — helps companies navigate the path toward sustainability.

Manufacturers in Rhode Island needing help reaching their sustainability goals should contact Polaris MEP for support.

Original Post: https://www.nist.gov/blogs/manufacturing-innovation-blog/integrating-sustainability-insights-wisconsin-sustainable