Ecotrend Blog

Ecotrend Ecologics is proud to announce in August of 2024, we were certified as a BMO 2023 Climate Smart Business. As Ecotrend Ecologics has evolved from a one-person operation in 1986 to a team of approximately 50 professionals today, we maintain alignment with our sustainability goals and work towards achieving net-zero emissions. Read more about Ecotrend Ecologics Climate Smart Business certification here: https://commercial.bmo.com/en/ca/resources/climat...

The accountability tool offered by the Bank of Montreal’s Climate Smart Program has been beneficial in helping us navigate our environmental journey. “As the first in our industry to join the Climate Smart Program back in 2011, we hope to not only be pioneers in our work but also in the way we progress our society through environmentalism and conservation,” says John Harrison, President and Founder of Ecotrend Ecologics.

Clear Actions for Lasting Impact

We made meaningful progress in reducing emissions, by implementing straightforward actions as part of our sustainability action plan. Some key initiatives include:

• Recycling shipping packaging
• Encouraging employees to use public transit or bike to work
• Setting up an EV charging station, resulting in four staff members switching to electric vehicles
• Implementing a recycling program early in its net-zero journey, leading to reduced waste and fewer garbage pickups
• Using biodegradable popcorn packaging for shipping
• Switching to carbon-friendly delivery services
• Printing newsletters and catalogues on wood-free paper

By replacing common resources and activities with less emission-intensive alternatives, we have utilized smaller actions to contribute to larger sustainability goals. Over the past 12 years, Ecotrend Ecologics diligently worked through our action items and we continue to seek new measures each year.

Results and Future Plans

Our dedicated approach to sustainability has produced impressive results, including:

• 44% reduction in absolute emissions compared to its baseline year (2011) across scopes 1, 2, and 3.
• 50% reduction in emissions intensity (tCO2e/1K revenue).
• 55% cut in emissions associated with shipments.
• 20% reduction in emissions from utility usage.
• 15% decrease in costs for reported activities compared to the baseline year.

Our best advice for other businesses looking to reduce emissions is to start small and tackle what is feasible within their means.

Looking ahead, we plan to expand its recycling program to include a paper usage audit, allowing for better tracking of paper consumption. Additionally, we will introduce an “Internal Waste Training and Education” program to encourage further waste reduction among our staff both in and out of the office.

Why Sustainability Matters

Implementing sustainable practices not only benefits the environment but also offers numerous advantages for businesses:

• Cut emissions: Strive to reduce pollutants and lower your carbon footprint.
• Cut energy expenses: Lower fuel, waste, and energy costs by utilizing data for operational improvements and upgrades.
• Mitigate business risks: Reduce climate-related risks and future-proof your operations against impending regulations.
• ESG reporting and net-zero targets: Collect quantifiable data for ESG reporting and align with global standards like CDP, TCFD, and SBTi.
• Gain a competitive advantage: Attract new employees, enhance job skills, and improve your standing in bids and proposals.

Ecotrend Ecologics’ sustainability initiatives align with the WRI/WBCSD GHG Protocol, recognized internationally for carbon accounting, and its participation in the Climate Smart program underscores our commitment to transitioning to a net-zero future.

We actively support various global initiatives aimed at protecting nature and assisting those in need. Our commitments include supporting organizations such as the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), PETA, the David Suzuki Foundation, Ecojustice, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Sierra Club, Greenpeace, the Western Canada Wilderness Committee, and the Amazon Rainforest Conservancy (ARC).

Conclusion

As we continue to navigate our sustainability journey, we hope to serve as a powerful example of how businesses can take proactive steps toward environmental stewardship. By focusing on clear, actionable goals and fostering a culture of accountability, we enhance our own operations and are continuing our journey in 2024 and 2025 by setting up new and innovative ways of being environmentally sustainable. If you have any ideas, you’d like to share with us on how you think Ecotrend Ecologics can make a positive influence on the environment, please share with us below in the comments section.

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