Getting buy in

To effect change, you’re going to need buy-in, ideally from everyone within and sometimes from stakeholders beyond the organisation.

The first target is the board. You’re going to need a convincing argument, ideally irrefutable evidence, that your plan for environmental improvement is:

• Necessary — cite legislation, competition, costs of waste disposal, market pressure.
• Affordable — put clear, accurate costs on the table. Calculate pay back periods.
• Cost effective — do all you can to give accurate projections of savings.
• Going to improve profitability — show how. Talk about others who have done it. Envirowise can provide you with examples.
• Likely to attract more customers and business partners — talk to suppliers, customers and potential partners and give actual examples.

This may look daunting. You may not have all the arguments, examples and figures at your fingertips. Help is at hand — if yours is an SME in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales, you could qualify for a free FastTrack visit*. Just click and find out more.

A presentation to senior management may be needed. Our guide Waste minimisation pays: five business reasons for reducing waste will help you prepare an effective presentation. It includes suggested handouts and even Powerpoint™ presentation slides.

Whilst many companies recognise the benefits of waste minimisatio strategies and resource efficiency, difficulties often arise in the actual implementation. Resource Efficiency and Corporate Responsibility - Managing Change is a guide on how to effectively introduce new innitiatives within your organisation.

Next - Why you need buy in?

* Please note that different services are available in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales - please contact our Advice Line on 0800 585 794 for more information on whether you are eligible for a site visit.