During the last several years, there has been a growing awareness of the environmental impact that human activity is having on the planet.

According to a BSR/Globescan survey of business leaders in charge of sustainability and corporate social responsibility, less than 33% of respondents said their businesses are actually engaging with sustainable strategic planning. As individuals, businesses and communities, we are all responsible for reducing our carbon footprint and seeking more sustainable energy solutions. To address this issue, we need to prioritize energy solutions that are sustainable, efficient and environmentally friendly.

But why is it so important for businesses to reduce their environmental footprint and seek out sustainable energy solutions in the first place? The answer is simple: it makes good business sense. By reducing energy waste and adopting sustainable energy sources, businesses can save money on energy costs in the long run. Additionally, many governments and organizations offer incentives for adopting energy-efficient solutions, which can help offset the initial costs of implementation.

Here's what you can do to become more energy efficient in your business:

1. Conduct Energy Audits — Conducting comprehensive energy audits to identify areas where energy is wasted or used inefficiently. By analyzing data on energy consumption, building design and equipment efficiency, recommendations on specific changes can help reduce energy use and costs.
2. Investigate Renewable Energy Solutions — Transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar or wind power. This can also include designing and installing renewable energy systems with government incentives and financing options.
3. Make Energy Efficiency Upgrades — Recommending and implementing various energy efficiency upgrades, such as upgrading lighting systems, HVAC systems and building envelopes. These upgrades reduce energy use and costs and improve the comfort and safety of the building's occupants.

Energy management solutions from a group purchasing organization

By offering energy management solutions, the right GPO is helping businesses and organizations across the country reduce their environmental footprint and become more sustainable. And, with the rising energy cost and the growing awareness of the need to reduce carbon emissions, energy management solutions are becoming increasingly valuable.

GPOs like Entegra are leading the way by providing businesses and organizations with the tools and expertise they need to make a difference. But it's up to all of us to do our part, whether that means making changes in our homes and businesses or advocating for policies that support a more sustainable future. With the help of the right GPO, we can all take meaningful steps towards a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.

At Entegra, we offer a range of advisory services and energy solutions to help organizations reduce their environmental footprint and optimize their energy usage. We work with our clients to develop tailored solutions that meet their unique needs and sustainability goals.

If you want to learn more about how your GPO can help your sustainability goals, read our new white paper.