Progress towards environmental sustainability can only be measured and monitored in a reliable way if robust data, indicators and tools are available.  Policy targets and associated indicators are also essential for constructive action to address the long-term challenge of sustainability in Europe. Sustainable development aims to improve quality of life without compromising the well-being of...

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) launched a new publication that demonstrates the business case for companies to engage in water valuation. Water Valuation: Building the business case paves the way towards the integration of true water values and true water costs into decision-making. Water availability is increasingly limited. Globally, water resources are...

Eco-innovation matters in two ways for small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). More than 99% of European Union companies are SMEs, covering all sectors, including crafts, manufacturers and retailers. SMEs are responsible for two-thirds of private sector employment, and about 60% of EU GDP. Spreading eco-innovative approaches throughout small and medium-sized companies could reap wide-ranging benefits....

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) in conjunction with the BeGreen Programme, provide many supports, often free of charge, to business. Guidance on available supports is presented on the SEAI website and is summarized in a presentation made during the recent the BeGreen Roadshow. The BeGreen Programme is supported by the Small Firms Association and the Environmental...

The following questions can test any business’ approach to becoming a sustainable organization: How can we increase use of recycled and bio-based materials? Evaluating material alternatives through compatibility and footprint analysis is one of the best ways to help answer this question. How can we prevent our products from ending up in landfill? Understand the...

The European Commission has outlined its plans to change EU legislation on environmental impact assessments (EIAs) –  to replace Directive 2011/92/EU. EU figures show that there, on average, are up to 26,000 EIAs across the bloc each year, and that the duration of the process is generally more than 11 months. There is mounting concern among...

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and Sustainability released Water for Business. Specifically designed for businesses Identifies the water tools and initiatives most suitable for the needs businesses. Outlines the benefits of the different tools available Illustrates how a combination of complementary tools can...

The Deloitte Q2 2012 CFO Survey has stated that 9 out of 10 Irish CFOs identified sustainability as having the strongest impact on long term value creation, compliance, risk management and building trust (ahead off cost control, revenue generation and investor relations). The EU is currently progressing legislation that would require non-financial reporting by CFOs, including...

Ernst and Young, in cooperation with GreenBiz Group, conducted a survey in late 2011 which covered a wide range of topics related to corporate sustainability and reporting. The results show that while interest in these areas continues to rise, the tools are still developing. Conclusions drawn from the outcome of the survey suggest a number of...

Sustainability must address Economic, Social and Environmental Requirements. In many instances the word Viability could be used instead of Sustainability ECOS Environmental Consultants provide expert Knowledge, Advice and Solutions to all types of businesses Water & Wastewater – Quality, Treatment, Compliance Environmental Management – Investigation, Innovation, Optimization Troubleshooting & Problem Solving – All of the above...