Sustainability and the Planet: When Acting for the Environment Becomes a Winning Strategy
What if taking care of the planet was also one of the best things you could do for your business? In celebration of Earth Month, the British Columbia Economic Development Society (BCED) invites you to discover the inspiring journey of Eliot, co-founder of Sustainscale. This company accompanies organizations, large and small, in their ecological transformation. But here, there’s no greenwashing. Their mission: to translate green intentions into concrete and measurable actions, and make ecological transition a performance driver. We had a rich and stimulating conversation with Eliot, discussing carbon, festivals, SMEs… and especially concrete solutions to build a more sustainable future, starting now.
A Transition to Sustainability… but Not Just Symbolic
From the start, Eliot shares some excellent news: Sustainscale has signed several new mandates to accompany companies in their green change. And it’s not just to check a box on an annual report. “We’re going to accompany some companies to go beyond ecological strategies. We’re establishing concrete actions.” – Eliot, co-founder of Sustainscale Among the projects? None other than the carbon footprint of one of Montreal’s reputable festivals. This kind of initiative shows that sustainable practices are not only beneficial for the environment: they can also become competitive advantages.
Ecology as a Driver of Innovation
Eliot reminds us with conviction: ecology does not hinder innovation – it stimulates it. New products, more efficient processes, optimized logistics… Companies that dare to question their habits usually come out on top. And in British Columbia, there’s no lack of talent or audacity. “It’s not just to check a box on a report. It’s a real reflection on how we can do better, together.” The ecological transition is far from being an obstacle. It can become a true performance driver, both economically and environmentally.
Real Barriers, but Overcomeable
According to Eliot, entrepreneurs he knows want to do better, but often feel overwhelmed. He identifies three main barriers:
- The perceived complexity of the ecological transition
- The lack of clarity on concrete steps to take
- The fear of losing efficiency or profitability
And yet, he reminds us, ecology can improve performance: “Energy management reduces costs. Optimizing deliveries is good for the planet, but also for the budget.” The key? Start small, but start. Diagnosis for better action. Sustainscale’s approach is based on a rigorous but accessible methodology. No jargon or guilt-tripping: we start from what exists, and measure what counts. “Often we start with a mini-diagnosis. Sometimes, in three hours, we can already identify action routes, waste, and habits to review.” The company offers different levels of carbon footprint evaluations, adapted to the size and needs of each organization. And always with a benevolent approach: the goal is to improve, not perfect.
And You, Where Are You?
Earth Month is the perfect time to think about the environmental impact of your business. Have you analyzed… Your energy consumption? The carbon footprint of your products or services? Your waste and packaging? Your purchasing practices? If the answer is no, don’t worry. The most important thing is to move, at your own pace, with the right tools.
Together, Let’s Build a Sustainable Future
French-speaking entrepreneurs in British Columbia have an important role to play in the ecological transition. You are many who want to align your values with your business practices. And we’re here to support you. Here’s what you can do today:
- Conduct a mini-diagnosis of your activities: energy, travel, suppliers.
- Be brave and ask questions, even if you don’t feel like an “expert”.
- Surround yourself with reliable partners, like Sustainscale or BCED.
Want to Green Your Business?
Get in touch with Sustainscale for a simple, effective, and adapted accompaniment. Book a meeting with BCED to discover all the possibilities and get self-evaluation tools for your environmental practices. Because acting for the planet is also building a stronger, more credible, and more aligned business with the world of tomorrow.
