Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of Nepal’s economy. As global and local markets become more conscious of environmental and social responsibility, MSMEs have a unique opportunity to grow sustainably. This course will guide you through simple, practical steps to integrate sustainable and ethical practices into your business.
What is Sustainability in Business?
Sustainability means doing business in a way that is environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and economically viable—so your business can thrive long into the future.
Three Pillars of Sustainability:
Environmental: Reducing harm to the natural environment.
Social: Treating people—employees, suppliers, and communities—fairly.
Economic: Ensuring your business stays profitable and resilient.
Why It Matters for MSMEs:
- Customers are increasingly choosing ethical brands.
- Sustainable practices can lower costs and improve efficiency.
- Investors and partners favor responsible businesses.
- Your business can stand out in a competitive market.
Quick Exercise:
Write down 3 ways your business currently supports the environment or community.
Reducing Waste and Costs
Sustainability often starts with efficiency. Reducing waste doesn’t just help the environment—it can also save money.
Steps You Can Take Today:
- Track usage: Monitor electricity, water, and material use weekly.
- Go digital: Reduce paper use with digital invoices and communications.
- Re-use and recycle: Reuse packaging materials and segregate waste.
- Buy smart: Choose bulk and local suppliers to reduce shipping waste.
Cost-Saving Examples:
- A local bakery switched to reusable containers, saving over Rs. 2,000/month.
- An office in Pokhara reduced printing by 80%, cutting costs and paper waste.
Action Step:
Make a list of 5 items your business uses regularly. Are there reusable or low-waste alternatives?
Fair Labour Practices
Treating your employees fairly builds loyalty, increases productivity, and enhances your business’s reputation.
What Fair Labour Means:
- Paying legal or fair wages
- Providing safe and healthy working conditions
- Avoiding child labor and discrimination
- Ensuring reasonable working hours
Why It Pays Off:
- Happy employees stay longer.
- Word-of-mouth improves your brand.
- Socially responsible businesses attract better partners and customers.
Even Small Steps Matter:
- Give regular breaks and recognize hard work.
- Involve staff in decision-making.
- Offer basic safety equipment (gloves, masks, etc.).
Quick Tip:
Create a simple, one-page “Employee Code of Conduct” to promote fairness and respect in the workplace.
Eco-Friendly Packaging and Products
Packaging and product materials can create a lot of waste. Switching to eco-friendly options helps the planet—and can be a selling point for your brand.
Options to Consider:
- Use paper, cloth, or recycled materials instead of plastic.
- Choose local suppliers to reduce carbon emissions from transport.
- Offer refillable or reusable product options.
Local Ideas in Action:
- A Nepali cosmetics brand uses clay jars and recycled labels.
- A grocery shop in Lalitpur encourages customers to bring their own bags.
Checklist:
- Recycled or biodegradable packaging
- Minimal or no plastic
- Local sourcing
- Refillable or reusable products
Starter Action:
Switch just one product or packaging material to an eco-friendly version this month.
Telling Your Sustainability Story to Customers
Letting customers know about your efforts builds trust and loyalty. Authentic, clear communication is key.
How to Share Your Story:
- On Packaging: “This bag is made from recycled paper.”
- In Your Shop: Posters showing your sustainability efforts.
- Online: Share photos and updates on Facebook, Instagram, and your website.
Be Transparent:
- Share both your successes and your ongoing goals.
- Avoid “greenwashing”—only claim what’s true.
Sample Message:
“We’ve switched to biodegradable packaging to reduce plastic waste. Our goal is to be 100% plastic-free by next year.”
Try This:
Write a short post for social media about one sustainable change your business has made.
Exercise for You: Create Your Sustainability Action Plan
Use this simple template to set your goals:
My Business Sustainability Action Plan
- What I’m already doing:
(e.g., Using local suppliers) - What I will start doing this month:
(e.g., Switching to cloth bags) - What I aim to achieve this year:
(e.g., Reduce electricity usage by 30%)
