Taking the First Steps to Sustainability: Where to Start and Why It Matters

The idea of sustainability is often seen as an overwhelming challenge, requiring significant investment and long-term commitments.  

But the reality is, getting started on a sustainability journey doesn’t have to be difficult. Just by breaking down the process into a clear, actionable, and easy-to-achieve strategy, organizations can make real meaningful progress toward reducing emissions, optimizing resources, lowering costs, and meeting compliance and stakeholder expectations.  

Why sustainability matters 

Sustainability isn’t just about being environmentally responsible – it’s also a smart business decision. Beyond reducing carbon emissions, sustainable practices can cut costs, improve operational efficiency, and boost your organization’s reputation.  

For example, studies show that energy-efficient buildings can save more than $1 per square foot every year on utility and maintenance costs. Plus, aligning with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) expectations can strengthen investor confidence and keep organizations compliant with evolving regulations like the SEC Climate Rule and the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation. 

On the other hand, ignoring sustainability can also be a risky move. With 70% of Americans believing businesses should “play a role in making the world a better place,” companies that lag behind on sustainability could face public scrutiny. Taking action now can help you stay ahead of the curve rather than playing catch-up later. 

How to take the first steps toward sustainability 

If you’re wondering where to begin, here are four key areas to focus on: 

Assess your current impact 

The first step in any sustainability initiative is understanding your current carbon footprint. Identify major sources of emissions – whether from energy use, operations, or supply chains—to determine where to focus your efforts. 

Leverage data for actionable insights 

While many organizations have renewable energy initiatives, only half (51%) effectively use their asset data to inform sustainability strategies. Tracking energy usage, identifying inefficiencies, and optimizing maintenance practices can uncover hidden opportunities for cost savings and emissions reduction. 

Implement small, impactful changes 

Not every sustainability initiative requires a major investment. Simple actions, like optimizing HVAC systems, improving lighting efficiency, and reducing waste, can generate immediate benefits. Using data from your CMMS or other information sources can help identify and prioritize the areas where change is needed most.  

Engage stakeholders and build a culture of sustainability 

Sustainability is most successful when it’s embedded in an organization’s culture. Engaging employees, leadership, and stakeholders in a collaborative effort ensures alignment and encourages long-term commitment to sustainability goals for everyone across the team. 

Partnering for a sustainable future 

Sustainability doesn’t have to be a solo journey. The right technology and expertise can simplify the process, making it easier to track progress, meet regulatory requirements, and achieve long-term goals.  

Brightly Software provides the solutions and insights you need to manage energy use, reduce emissions, and take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future. We recently created a comprehensive beginner’s guide to sustainability and taking the first steps on a journey to net zero.  

If you would like to learn more about how to get started reducing emissions, optimizing energy efficiency, and better aligning with regulatory and stakeholder expectations, download your free copy of the guide below.  

Get “Simplifying Sustainability: A Beginner’s Guide for Taking the First Steps on a Journey to Net Zero.”