CEO column | Setting a sustainable business agenda in 2023
A decade of opportunity for Queensland business starts now.
As the countdown to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games ramps up, Queensland is set to become the most exciting place in Australia to operate with businesses, workers, and our local economies and communities, all set to benefit from the opportunities to come.
Brisbane is set to host a climate positive Games in 2032 – and being Olympics-ready means being sustainable.
Businesses that act now to ensure they meet the increasing sustainability expectations of consumers and the market will be in position to take up opportunities as the global economy moves rapidly towards a renewable energy future.
That’s why we have a dedicated focus on how we can support businesses to accelerate their sustainable business practices and produce goods and services with a low carbon footprint.
While a sustainable focus ensures businesses will make a positive impact on the environment, it also means they can show they value working sustainably, and those with a commitment to low carbon emissions, will be more competitive.
That means being competitive among local and global consumers who increasingly want to shop and spend at sustainable businesses, competitive in international markets and supply chains, and competitive for skilled labour among tight workforces.
If a business doesn’t reflect a customer’s sustainability expectations, it’s likely they’ll take their money elsewhere.
Importantly, we know these businesses will be on top of the leader board when vying to win procurement contracts.
At CCIQ we’re leading the accelerated adoption of sustainable business practices so Queensland businesses can thrive now and in the future. We’re already carbon neutral. In fact, we’re the first state chamber of commerce in Australia to achieve carbon neutrality.
We’re doing this through our ecoBiz program, in partnership with the Queensland Government, which has now been running for close to a decade.
Our team of ecoBiz sustainability experts have worked with thousands of Queensland businesses to identify opportunities to reduce water, waste and energy use, increase efficiencies, decrease their carbon footprint and save money.
It means businesses can implement low or no-cost solutions to increase their day-to-day energy efficiency. When energy prices, utility expenditure and business operating costs are high, it’s welcome relief.
But at the same time, it means those businesses are preparing for future opportunities and will be able to prove their sustainable business credentials to customers, supply chains, investors, and the government.
To get started, see CCIQ ecoBiz.