Some businesses seem to throw the word “sustainability” around like it’s a new chart-topping song.
But what does it actually mean?
We all know that the environment is our friend. A good friend. And as good friends take care of one another, that’s precisely what we intend to do as a business in the travel industry.
So, what do we do? We know we can’t keep pumping harmful gases into the atmosphere. However, we need to make money for the people whose well being and livelihoods depend on us. Not to mention the very important service we provide to the public and our customers.
Luckily there is an option. And it’s called compensation.
Environmental compensation refers to the practice of offsetting environmental damage caused by development projects. It involves restoring, enhancing, or preserving an equivalent natural area to compensate for the ecological impact. Or funding someone else to do it on your behalf.
And, in the meantime, you do everything you can to become more and more green.
Steps for the Sustainable Future
Here’s an overview of how environmental compensation works in general:
- Assessment of Environmental Impact:
- First, an assessment is conducted to evaluate the potential environmental impact of running a business.
- Calculating the Offset:
- Once the extent of the environmental damage is determined, the company is required to compensate for this impact by providing an equivalent environmental benefit elsewhere. This involves calculating the amount of compensation required to offset the harm caused by the project.
- Selection and Implementation of Compensation Actions:
- Compensation actions may include activities such as creating or restoring natural habitats, planting trees, or supporting conservation projects in other locations. These actions aim to deliver an environmental benefit that is equivalent to or greater than the impact of running the business.
- Monitoring and Compliance:
- When it comes to private small businesses, environmental compensation is not regulated by governmental authorities or environmental agencies. It is up to the company itself to ensure that it is carried out in accordance with the company’s own values, guidelines and standards.
By following these steps, environmental compensation aims to achieve a balance between business activities and the conservation of natural resources, ultimately contributing to the overall sustainability of business projects.
And so, despite being a cool new word, sustainability, actually has some great meaning.
Also we here at Xwander Nordic have big plans towards sustainable business and the environment. To see how Xwander Nordic is making a difference, keep following us here and on social media, namely Facebook and Instagram.