Sustainable Development
Community Futures is a well established and resourceful community economic development organization that researches, develops, partners and implements strategic projects and programs to help develop the local community and economy. We are a key member of the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC) and regularly collaborate with the COEDC and its members to deliver a unified and strategic economic development approach to the Central Okanagan. see www.investkelowna.com
What is sustainable development?
Sustainable development is the modern approach to growth that ensures we are meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable development encompasses three main pillars: economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection. Sustainable development is vital for creating a balanced and equitable world, ensuring that both people and the planet can thrive now and in the future.To provide global guidance, the United Nations developed the Sustainable Development Goals, commonly referred to as the SDGs. The SDGs identify the 17 key goals that are required in order to achieve prosperity and peace for people and the planet. Between these 17 goals, 169 targets have been created to aid in helping us understand how we can contribute to sustainable development meaningfully. https://sdgs.un.org/goals
Why is sustainable development important for your business?
- Economic Resilience: improve profitability by resource efficiency and waste reduction.
- Market Demand: consumers are increasingly willing to pay to support local and/or sustainable businesses.
- Supply Chain Management: Everyone’s supply chain will inevitably be impacted by climate change at some point (remember when the Coqhihalla got washed out?). Localizing your supply chain provides direct benefits to your business and the community around you.
- Employee Satisfaction: A true commitment to sustainability benefits employees through fair wages, meaningful work, inclusive workplaces, and allows employers to attract and retain top talent.
- Brand Loyalty: A commitment to sustainability can enhance a brand’s reputation, fostering consumer loyalty and brand trust.
Reasons why small businesses are reluctant to integrate sustainable development:
- Perceived high cost / low ROI
- Lack of manpower
- Lack of expertise
- Overwhelmed on where to begin
- Short-Term Focus
More Resources
- Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission
- Learn about the SDG’s and your areas of impact
- Sustainable Best Practice Examples from SADC+CAE
- Living Wage BC
- BC ESG Centre of Excellence
- B Lab / B Corporation - try the FREE SDG Action Manager Tool
Additional strategic areas where Community Futures is concentrating its efforts include:
Value Added Agriculture and Local Food Processing