[Cymraeg]
Making environmental improvements and reducing resource consumption will become a top priority for over half (56%) of Welsh companies during the next year, according to Envirowise research.
With increasing environmental legislation and the rising cost of raw materials, water and energy placing growing pressure on businesses, this figure reveals that more and more firms are putting green thinking at the top of their agenda.
The research also highlights that potential cost savings are the biggest incentive for making improvements, with 62% of those questioned in Wales citing financial rewards as their primary motivation. In fact, Envirowise estimates that businesses which take action to become more resource efficient could save as much as £200 per employee.
Ed Gmitrowicz, Envirowise Director for Wales, comments: "It's very encouraging to see that the importance of improving environmental performance is being recognised in Wales. Reducing resource consumption not only minimises waste, it also maximises profit margins, helping both the planet and the bottom line. What's more, as consumer pressure for more environmentally friendly products and services shows no sign of waning, it can create a significant competitive advantage.
"Dealing with waste at source should take priority over recycling and there is a wealth of simple measures which companies can implement immediately. These range from quick and easy actions such as printing double-sided and replacing leaking taps through to more structured environmental management systems involving suppliers and employees."
Envirowise offers a package of free advice about resource efficiency to companies across Wales with significant waste arisings. For further information contact the Advice Line.