30.12.2021

Tips & trends

Sustainability: take action now!

Which are the top 3 words of 2021? If the ranking is certainly dominated by Covid, followed closely by vaccines, the third word we’ve seen featured in all media globally is certainly sustainability, with its cross-cutting meaning in the environmental, economic and social spheres.

Lately we witnessed events that involved the whole world around the theme of sustainability. Let's think for example about the youth movement at Cop26 in Glasgow, with its effort to influence politics and revolutionize a culture intrinsic in the global production model that is not easy to change. Given the complexity of the problem, we believe that the only way to initiate change is to apply immediate actions and attention at the individual level. This is the only way to shape the industrial choices of companies and culture globally.

Sustainability is basically an attitude, and it’s just a matter of time before everyone will have to convey their life to a better way of living. You might say, where shall we start from? Below you can find 4 practical suggestions for when you shop or have to deal with items of any kind.

1.Evaluate all options first: don’t forget to reuse?

I need a desk: I have an Olivetti in the garage that can be restored for 500 euros, or I can buy a new one for 300 euros. Even if the first option is less convenient, the piece has certainly a higher value over time and the work would be worth it.

2. Analyze the production model before buying: choose durability!

Many companies apply models still based on the obsolescence of products, but there are also companies that select long lasting materials, offer free replacement service and repair, and pick-up or rental services. How to choose? Ask if the products are guaranteed and you’ll see that the selection will be straightforward.

3. Don’t forget to look at the work and cultural approach: companies that invest in their employees and in their territory are better!

A healthy company produces profits for its shareholders, but in addition to this, it also invests in its territory and its employees, investing in activities that enhance relationships and attract interest by strengthening their brand reputation.

4. Before throwing anything away, think that someone might need it or be willing to pay for it: give it away or resell it!

The last few decades have been characterized by an unbridled consumerism. Impulse buying is soon followed by a short product’s life and an end in the trash bin, carefully sorted, of course, but that's not enough. Before throwing away your desk of little value, consider offering it to a student who just arrived in town: post it on social networks or try to resell it on a fast channel. Once it finds a second home you will be very satisfied!

These pieces of advice might seem very basic, however they bring us closer to the goal of a more sustainable life. If we systematically put them into practice we will start making a difference and we will lead by example.