Feature
Issue No. 44 - December/January 2008
Green is the new black for SMEs
According to leading business and accounting
advisory firm mhm, a green approach to business can add to the bottom line of an enterprise.
“Many businesses mistakenly believe that becoming green will take them into the red financially. However, the opposite may be true,” said Peter Khoury, mhm’s Business Consulting Principal.
“Becoming green can in fact identify opportunities to help your enterprise move further into the black.
“Recent legislation has meant many large corporates will be required to measure, monitor and report on their greenhouse gas emissions.
“These corporations will be adopting strategies to reduce their emissions. These include purchasing goods and services from suppliers who have a relatively small footprint.
“Other benefits of being a green enterprise include the marketing advantages of your products and services, and attracting and retaining generation X and Y employees.
“Therefore, becoming a green enterprise will be a valuable investment that could allow you to reap considerable returns in the long run.”
mhm is currently measuring its own carbon footprint(with a view to reduce its environmental impact) and has capabilities within this area to advise and assist other organisations to do the same and benefit financially.
This service is set to become an increasing focus of the firm into the future. Mr Khoury says SA businesses looking to become green should follow a three-step process that includes measuring the overall carbon footprint, developing an ongoing reduction strategy and offsetting carbon emissions.
“Accurately reporting your emissions, offsetting and/ or reducing them requires a very strategic approach from the outset,” he said.
1. Measure your overall carbon footprint
“When measuring your overall carbon footprint, it is important to use the most up to date greenhouse gas conversion information, and as such, engage a reputable f...
