In a world fraught with food supply chain challenges, innovation is the key to progress. Let’s embark on a journey to explore three extraordinary initiatives at the forefront of this transformation. These visionary endeavours are reshaping the way we produce, distribute, and consume food. From tackling food waste and enhancing sustainability to reimagining urban farming, these projects are pioneering solutions that promise a brighter and more sustainable future for our global food ecosystem. Join us as we delve into their inspiring stories and learn how they’re addressing some of the most pressing issues in our food supply chain today.
Nilus’s innovative approach to tackling food waste
Every year, a staggering amount of edible food goes to waste, contributing to a significant global challenge. This occurs across various stages of the food supply chain, from production to distribution, retail, and consumption. At the same time, low-income communities face logistical challenges in accessing affordable groceries.
Nilus operates with a mission to address both of these problems. With presence in Argentina and Mexico, Nilus is tackling food waste and access issues. The heart of their approach lies in an innovative concept that leverages technology to bridge the gap between surplus food and marginalised communities. The centrepiece is a user-friendly app that serves as a platform for collaboration and resource sharing. Through the app, food producers can list surplus inventory before expiration. This prevents wastage by enabling timely distribution. The app directs surplus to points of need.
One key impact is facilitating connections between producers and low-income communities. This goes beyond transactions, embodying social responsibility and empathy. The surplus that would otherwise be wasted now reaches community kitchens or communal purchases. This approach addresses logistical challenges while fostering community and shared purpose.
Transforming food chains: OpenSC’s blockchain and AI revolution for sustainable consumption
Responsible consumption has become imperative, given environmental concerns. A startling revelation is that over 80% of food emissions occur in production. OpenSC addresses this challenge by verifying sustainable, low-carbon production at the source.
OpenSC harnesses blockchain and AI to enhance efficiency and introduce transparency. Blockchain creates an immutable ledger of a product’s journey from raw materials to consumer. This empowers consumers with insights into origins and processes, rewarding responsible brands. AI assists consumers and holds companies accountable through pattern analysis. The convergence of blockchain and AI in OpenSC’s framework creates a robust ecosystem transforming the industry into one that is more sustainable and ethical.
In a world where choices matter, OpenSC aims to bridge consumers and the responsible future of food.
Plenty: cultivating a greener tomorrow through urban-adjacent vertical farms
Plenty aims to address pressing challenges through vertical farming near urban centres. This strategic positioning slashes transportation emissions and nutrient loss.
Plenty is committed to resource efficiency. Unlike traditional agriculture, its controlled environment minimises water waste while nurturing crops. This significantly reduces water usage. Its ingenious vertical design also maximises productivity per unit of land. This conserves land while reducing pressure to convert natural areas.
Plenty’s holistic approach signals a step towards a more sustainable future for food through reduced emissions, optimised water usage, and efficient land utilisation.
The stories of these three innovators remind us that innovation is the driving force behind progress. As we celebrate these visionary initiatives, we are inspired by the potential they hold for a brighter and more sustainable future for our global food ecosystem. Together, they exemplify the power of human ingenuity in addressing the most pressing issues in our food supply chain today.
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We can’t ignore the impact of climate change on agriculture. Rising temps, water shortages, and the onslaught of pests are just some of the hurdles our farmers and ecosystems battle daily. Discover the link between climate change and what’s on our plates. Disrupted crop cycles and increased pesticide use – our food is tied to the planet’s health! We must rethink how we produce, distribute, and consume food in these challenges!
Rising temperatures disrupt crop cycles, causing uncertain yields and more extreme weather events.
In 2022, Hurricane Fiona destroyed more than 80,000 tonnes of bananas in the Dominican Republic, around 7% of what they were expecting to produce that year.
Changes in climate affect pollinator behaviour.
In the UK, bees are now emerging an average of 6.5 days earlier from their nests due to warmer winters. This shift is causing them to become out of sync with the crops they are meant to pollinate, such as apples and pears.
Worsening heat breeds pests, driving more pesticide use.
Increasing heat in Zimbabwe have intensified pest issues for smallholder farmers, prompting higher pesticide use and causing alarming poisoning levels among farmers and their communities.
Amidst the challenges, inspiring changes are taking root. Farmers, scientists, and communities are collaborating to create more resilient food and agriculture systems. But there is still a lot left to do!
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In a world facing urgent challenges of social and environmental change, one leader stands out for his unwavering courage, resilience, and visionary approach: Nelson Mandela. At Impact Hub, a community dedicated to driving positive transformations, we are deeply inspired by Mandela’s incredible story. Join us on this transformative journey as we explore four key leadership lessons we’ve learned from Mandela’s wisdom and unwavering spirit.
Lesson 1: Harness the power of forgiveness
Imagine spending 27 long years locked away in a prison cell, stripped of freedom and torn apart from loved ones. Nelson Mandela could have easily succumbed to bitterness and hatred. However, as he finally stepped out of Robben Island, something far more powerful accompanied him: forgiveness. In his own words, Mandela said,
“As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison spiring and empowering them.”
Mandela’s remarkable capacity to release resentment and embrace forgiveness was truly extraordinary. It shattered the chains that bound him and unlocked the doors to reconciliation and understanding. His story imparts a profound lesson: forgiveness possesses the transformative power to heal wounds, bridge divides, and reshape societies. It is an act of courage that disrupts the cycle of hatred, paving the way for a future that is brighter and more unified. Mandela’s example serves as an urgent call for us to embrace forgiveness as a catalyst for positive change, whether in our teams, communities, or beyond. By building bridges and fostering collaboration, we can collectively cultivate an environment of compassion and unity, propelling us towards a better tomorrow.
Lesson 2: Lead with courage
Amidst the darkness of despair and the weight of oppression, Nelson Mandela found the courage to triumph over fear. He once said,
“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
Mandela’s journey was one of unyielding perseverance, rooted in the unwavering belief that hope could overcome any adversity. He endured years of imprisonment, yet never lost sight of his vision for a just and equitable society. His story teaches us that true leaders rise above their fears, inspiring hope and resilience in others. In times of uncertainty and doubt, Mandela’s lesson ignites the fire within us to confront challenges head-on and create a better future for all.
Lesson 3: Embrace diversity, strengthen unity
Mandela’s vision of a Rainbow Nation stemmed from the profound belief that unity is our greatest strength. Through his courageous fight against apartheid, he aimed to dismantle the barriers that divided people based on race or ethnicity.
“No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin or his background or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.”
This profound reflection emphasises how prejudices are learned through societal influences and biassed ideologies. However, it also highlights the power of education and awareness in combating these biases.
As leaders, we have a responsibility to create environments that promote empathy, understanding, and appreciation for diversity. By providing opportunities for learning, dialogue, and exposure to different cultures, we can dismantle the roots of hatred and cultivate a culture of acceptance and love.
In our teams, communities, and society as a whole, we can actively challenge stereotypes, confront biases, and create an environment where inclusivity flourishes. By acknowledging that the human heart is inclined towards love, we can inspire profound change, advance equality, and construct a world that is more inclusive and harmonious. Let us lead by example, showcasing the power of education and understanding to dismantle prejudice and shape a brighter future for everyone.
Lesson 4: Unlock the potential in others
Nelson Mandela’s visionary leadership was not fueled by personal ambition or the desire for control. Instead, he possessed the remarkable ability to empower others and ignite their potential as agents of change. Mandela understood that true leadership lies in unlocking the capabilities of every individual, fostering a network of inspired minds working towards a shared vision.
Mandela’s leadership style can be likened to that of a shepherd guiding a flock towards a brighter future. In his own words, he described a leader as someone who “stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realising that all along they are being directed from behind.”
As leaders, we are called to empower those around us, providing support, guidance, and trust. By recognizing and encouraging the strengths and potential in others, we create a culture of empowerment and collaboration. Together, we can unlock new possibilities, drive positive change, and create a future where everyone’s talents are valued and utilised.
The spirit of Mandela lives on
Nelson Mandela’s extraordinary journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration for leaders across the globe. Through the power of storytelling, we have explored his key leadership lessons, from the power of forgiveness and embracing diversity to visionary leadership, perseverance, and leaving a lasting impact. Let us carry Mandela’s wisdom within us and embark on our own transformative journeys. Together, we can create a bold and inclusive world, where the spirit of Mandela lives on, and our collective potential is realised.
The time for change is now.
In our diverse and evolving world, language plays a crucial role in expressing and understanding the human experience. It has the power to shape our perceptions, challenge societal norms, and ignite social change.
It is important to evolve with new terminology to demonstrate that we are committed to treating others with dignity and respect. In commemoration of International Non-Binary People’s Day, let’s brush up on our understanding and vocabulary in our social and professional spaces.
By doing so, we become architects of empathy, compassion, and ultimately makers of an inclusive society.
Sex & Gender
The terms “sex” and “gender” are often used interchangeably but this is incorrect.
Sex is a label – male, female, or intersex – assigned at birth based on physiological characteristics, including genitalia and chromosome composition.
Gender is a broad spectrum and is about how a person identifies. A person may identify at any point within the spectrum or outside of it entirely.
“Two people can look similar and be completely different genders. Gender is not what people look like to other people; it is what we know ourselves to be. No one else should be able to tell you who you are; that’s for you to decide.” – Alok Vaid-Menon, Beyond the Gender Binary
Cis, Trans, & Non-Binary
There are many ways in which a person may define their own gender. People may identify with genders that are different from their assigned sex at birth, or with none at all.
Cisgender, or cis, describes a person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Transgender, or trans, is a broad umbrella term. In general, it refers to anyone who isn’t cis and is inclusive of a range of identities such as trans woman and trans man.
Non-binary is a term used by people who do not identify with the confines of the gender binary. Instead, they understand their gender in a way that goes beyond identifying as either a man or woman.
“It is really important, in a world that is often “either/or”, to remember there can be both, neither and everything – that is, other than the ‘binary’ of male or female.” – Sally Goldner, Diversity Educator
Pronouns
Pronouns are words used to refer to people without specifically naming them, for example she/her or he/him. Non-binary people may choose one of these pronouns, but they may prefer a gender-neutral pronoun such as they/them. If you are unsure about someone’s pronouns, ask them.
Why does it matter?
Using the correct pronouns is a way to show someone you affirm and accept their identity.
By voluntarily sharing your own pronouns, you contribute to creating a safe and welcoming space for individuals of diverse gender identities. Let’s be the change we envision for the world!
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In an era where social and environmental issues are increasingly pressing, there is a crucial need to foster change that prioritises the well-being of both people and the planet. That is why these forward-thinking individuals have embraced the challenge of making a positive impact on society.
If you aspire to be among these passionate Impact Hub founders, then explore on to discover the actionable strategies and profound insights in this article. These invaluable perspectives were shared by the founders of Impact Hub Houston and Impact Hub Caracas during our recent Future Founders Day event. Let’s uncover the wisdom and experience that these pioneers have to offer!
Unlocking the power of partnerships and diversity
One of the key takeaways from Impact Hub Houston’s approach is the significance of partnerships and collaborations. By partnering with organisations that already deliver programmes, they leverage existing resources and expertise, benefiting both parties. This approach allows them to stand out in a crowded ecosystem and build trust among potential funders. Impact Hub Houston seeks funding through various sources, including corporate partners, foundational grants, and government grants. Their ability to position themselves as ecosystem developers and collaborators has helped them achieve their goals effectively.
Recognising the importance of diversity within the team and the community they serve, Impact Hub Houston aims to have a team that reflects the diversity of Houston – the most ethnically diverse city in the United States. By having team members from different backgrounds, they can effectively connect with and build trust within the community they serve. This diversity allows them to establish meaningful relationships and bridge cultural gaps.
“If you can see it, you can be it. Impact Hubs create a space where people can see people like themselves developing solutions and businesses, inspiring and empowering them.” – Grace Rodriguez, Impact Hub Houston.
Navigating adversity with resilience
The story of Impact Hub Caracas highlights the resilience and determination required to navigate challenging circumstances. Despite facing protests and political turmoil, Claudia Valladares and her team decided to open Impact Hub Caracas, demonstrating their commitment to their mission. Adapting to the intense socio-political challenges, Impact Hub Caracas redefined its mission and expanded its programmes to support entrepreneurs as active citizens fighting for democracy and social progress. This flexibility and adaptability are crucial in overcoming adversity.
They also faced severe economic challenges, including hyperinflation and currency devaluation. To address these challenges, they adopted an agile and flexible approach. Through successful collaborations with local actors, corporations, multilaterals, and embassies, they built a robust ecosystem that recognises their role as a significant player in the region. By seeking additional funding and subsidising programme costs, they ensure that their programmes are accessible to entrepreneurs facing financial difficulties in the current economic climate.
“Impact Hubs can be both a safe space for people to have difficult conversations, innovate new solutions, or have new ideas. We have become a place where people can find access to other people through our Impact Hub network and not feel isolated.” – Claudia Valladares, Impact Hub Caracas.
Benefits of becoming part of the Global Network
At the core of Impact Hub’s philosophy is the belief in the power of entrepreneurship to solve challenges and create positive change. When individuals and organisations become members of the network, they join a vibrant community united by this shared belief. This environment nurtures the growth of innovative solutions, allowing them to flourish and make a lasting impact.
- Versatile and replicable business model
Impact Hub has developed a versatile business model that can be easily replicated in any local context. This model has been recognised and endorsed by international partners, and is even recognized by the United Nations for its contribution to advancing the sustainable development goals. Individuals and organisations can benefit from this established model, gaining guidance and support to create thriving hubs tailored to their local communities’ needs.
- Ongoing support and guidance
Impact Hub places great emphasis on fostering an environment of continuous growth. To support our Impact Hub’s co-founders in their entrepreneurial journey, we offer capacity building webinars, regional and global gatherings, and how-to guides that provide valuable insights and resources. - Global community and cross-hub collaboration
With 110+ hubs worldwide, Impact Makers can connect with diverse communities and work from any Impact Hub for three days per year. This global reach enables members to travel the world, expand their networks, and collaborate with like-minded individuals and organisations.
- Virtual community and knowledge sharing
Connect with other Impact Hub founders facing similar challenges in their local contexts on our virtual community platform! This virtual space fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing, allowing founders to learn from one another.
Become part of the Impact Hub global network and amplify impact, foster collaborations, and drive positive change on both local and global scales! Whether you are a start-up team or an established organisation, Impact Hub provides a platform for growth, connection, and the realisation of your vision for a better world.
Are you ready to bring Impact Hub to your community? Schedule a call with our team today!
It’s the vibrant month of June, a time when we come together to celebrate Pride Month and honour the LGBTQI+ community. In the spirit of inclusivity and acceptance, it is essential for organisations to actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the work environment.
In this blog post, we will explore five impactful ways your organisation can champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, not just during Pride Month, but throughout the entire year.
1. Acknowledge unconscious bias
Recognise that everyone has unconscious bias influenced by societal stereotypes and personal experiences. Engage in self-reflection and introspection to identify these biases. Deepen your understanding by challenging these assumptions.
2. Foster collective commitment
Research indicates that inclusion training is effective when employees are genuinely dedicated to the cause. Discuss openly with your team to agree and gain their support for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the organisation.
3. Seek expert guidance
It is beneficial to involve experts to conduct training sessions that challenge your biases and help explore privileges. Ensure that the training also emphasises inclusive language and communication.
4. Establish written guidelines
Develop a clear set of norms or guiding principles that explicitly address inclusivity within the organisation. This should involve equity-based hiring and promotion, fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of the organisation.
5. Transform the broader ecosystem
Extend your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion beyond your immediate team. Assess and identify opportunities for systemic change and implement strategies to promote diversity and inclusion externally.
By fostering these values, your organisation can cultivate a stronger sense of belonging and harness diverse perspectives. Together, let us embark on a journey towards building an inclusive and affirming workplace for everyone.
Join us in commemorating this year’s Pride celebration with a powerful video that honours our diverse network and the impactful contributions we make towards creating a more just and sustainable society.
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The term “net zero” has gained significant attention in the battle against climate change. It represents the stage where greenhouse gas emissions are offset by removing an equal amount from the atmosphere, achieving a state of balanced atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Despite the growing momentum behind the concept of net zero, it is not immune to misconceptions and falsehoods. In this blog post, we will delve into the prevailing myths and facts surrounding net zero, aiming to provide clarity on the subject.
Myth: Net zero is a “get out of jail free” card that allows companies and countries to continue emitting substantial amounts of greenhouse gases without adequately offsetting them, essentially engaging in greenwashing.
This prevalent myth proposes that achieving net zero allows companies and countries to conveniently maintain their business as usual by simply offsetting their emissions. However, achieving net zero demands concrete and quantifiable reductions in emissions, rather than relying solely on offsets. It is not a remedy that absolves responsibility, as companies and countries must undertake genuine actions to reduce emissions. These efforts include investing in renewable energy, minimising energy consumption, and adopting sustainable practices to ensure real progress towards net zero.
Myth: Net zero is impossible to achieve.
This misconception argues that the objective of achieving net zero is excessively ambitious and unattainable. Nevertheless, numerous countries and companies have already established net zero targets and are actively working towards them. For instance, the UK has committed to a net-zero target by 2050, and companies such as Microsoft, Unilever, and BP have also embraced similar goals. These concrete examples demonstrate that the pursuit of net zero is both feasible and being pursued by influential entities.
Myth: Net zero is too expensive.
This misconception posits that the pursuit of net zero will come at a high cost and adversely impact the economy. Although there are expenses linked to transitioning to a net zero economy, the costs of inaction in the face of climate change will far outweigh them in the long term. Failure to address climate change could result in more frequent natural disasters, crop failures, and loss of life, incurring substantial costs.
Fact: Net zero is essential to limit global warming and prevent the most catastrophic effects of climate change.
The goal of achieving net zero is of utmost importance in curbing global warming and averting the most disastrous consequences of climate change. Failing to reach net zero puts the planet at risk of irreversible harm, such as escalating sea levels, an upsurge in both frequency and severity of natural disasters, and the loss of biodiversity. It is imperative that we work towards net zero to safeguard the environment for future generations and mitigate the potential catastrophic impacts of climate change.
Fact: It’s not easy, but it’s crucial.
Attaining net zero is undoubtedly a challenging path, yet it remains essential. Despite the substantial effort and investment it demands, it has the potential to stimulate innovation, drive economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and enhance public health over time. For instance, investing in renewable energy can create jobs within the energy sector, while simultaneously reducing pollution levels and benefiting public health.
Fact: Net zero can be achieved but a revolutionary transformation is necessary.
Reaching net zero demands a revolutionary transformation in the operations and management of industries, a fundamental change in our approach to food production and consumption, and a reassessment of our understanding of financial growth and profit. It necessitates a significant shift in industrial practices to address emissions, including the adoption of renewable energy, energy conservation, and sustainable measures. Similarly, transforming our agricultural systems and dietary choices, such as embracing plant-based diets and reducing food waste, will be crucial. Additionally, we must realign our perspective on financial growth and profit to prioritise sustainability over short-term gains.
In conclusion, achieving net zero requires concrete actions from industries and countries, rather than relying solely on offsetting emissions. It is a challenging but crucial objective that demands a revolutionary transformation in various sectors. By embracing sustainable practices, investing in renewable energy, and redefining our approach to food production and consumption, we can work towards a net zero future, protecting the planet and paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient world.
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According to a recent McKinsey report, reaching net zero by 2050 could require a 60% increase in capital spending on physical assets compared to current levels. The total investment needed amounts to $9.2 trillion per year until 2050, with $6.5 trillion annually allocated to low-emissions assets and enabling infrastructure. There is a growing demand for zero-carbon technologies that can facilitate global decarbonisation at scale. Breakthroughs in net zero and circular innovation have the potential to pave the way towards a 100% zero carbon future.
As part of our global environmental strategy, Impact Hub is dedicated to supporting green ventures in scaling their solutions rapidly. We achieve this through building partnerships and programs at a global, regional, and local level, focused on addressing environmental challenges in key areas. Our aim is to provide the necessary support for green ventures in our pipeline to succeed.
We actively scout, support, and scale green ventures that are focused on decarbonising industries that are major contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, such as renewables, construction, food & agriculture, mobility, and more. We expect these ventures to have clear commitments to achieving zero emissions and adopt circular business models, as we believe this is the most effective way to create positive impact at scale in the long term.
Startups have proven to be successful in scaling new climate tech innovations and have the potential to drive significant market shifts. Scaling these green ventures is of paramount importance for these technologies to match the magnitude of the challenges we face. In this article, we want to share two stories that highlight how the Impact Network is approaching this at a local level while aiming for global impact, in different regions around the world.
Impact Hub Accra (Ghana) | Net Zero Electric Mobility Platform
The Impact Hub Accra team is leading the charge towards e-mobility and sustainable energy in Ghana. Their partnership with Siemens Stiftung has catalysed the production of electric cargo bikes, helping to reduce carbon emissions and make clean mobility accessible to lower-income communities.
Ghana Design Spirit was also organised to find innovative e-mobility solutions for the country’s transportation challenges which is a critical step towards a more sustainable future.
On November 30th, Impact Hub Accra unveiled their Net Zero Electric Mobility Platform. The platform seeks to identify common goals and strategies towards a sustainable mobility future, which can be achieved through collective action.
The Net Zero Electric Mobility Platform for Ghana facilitates collaboration among stakeholders to introduce new technology, build networks, share successful business models and research, and advocate for policies supporting growth in the electric mobility space. Check out this video to learn more about the platform and hear from the Impact Hub Accra team themselves.
Impact Hub São Paulo (Brasil) | IdeiaGov
On the other side of the pacific ocean, Impact Hub São Paulo from Brazil is empowering entrepreneur environmental innovation in a similar way by operating IdeiaGov, a São Paulo State Government’s open innovation hub that connects people and organisations with the mission of solving public challenges to generate a positive impact on society.
IdeiaGov aims to tackle cross-cutting and sectoral challenges in São Paulo’s state management that are common to governments in Brazil, Latin America, and the rest of the world. By identifying the root causes that require innovative solutions, the program seeks to foster economic development and innovation through technology. One of the innovation hubs under IdeiaGov is Scipopulis, a company known for its expertise in data analysis and smart cities. Through Impact Hub, Scipopulis received support to validate their Trancity project, which leverages technology and data analysis to help cities transition to cleaner electrical bus systems in line with their Net Zero goals.
Trancity is a real-time platform that analyses historical data on public transport, measuring indicators such as average bus speed and greenhouse gas emissions. By providing precise pollution metrics, Trancity enables public managers to identify which bus lines and areas to prioritise in the transition to Net Zero.
Watch this video where Jessica from IH Sao Paulo and Thayane from the Scipopulis/Trancity project share their collaborative experience and provide a comprehensive understanding of the project.
Stay tuned to Impact Hub Sao Paulo’s news here and here
At Impact Hub, we are committed to creating a just and sustainable world where businesses and profit are used in service of people and the planet. We invite you to join us on this journey towards a better future and stay tuned for more inspiring Climate Action stories that showcase how our community is making a positive impact.
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Happy Earth Week! As we celebrate our planet and its resources, it’s important to recognise the role of businesses in protecting the environment. Impact entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to make a positive difference in the world by creating sustainable startups that prioritise social and environmental impact. However, starting a sustainable business can be challenging without the right tools and resources.
In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of five essential tools that can help impact entrepreneurs build a sustainable startup that contributes to a better world.
1. Get a baseline of your performance
Before you start building a sustainable startup, it’s important to understand where you currently stand in terms of your social and environmental impact. The B Impact Assessment is a free online tool that can help you measure your business’s performance in these areas. By answering a series of questions, you’ll receive a score that reflects how well your business is performing. This can be a great first step to understand where you stand and where you can improve.
2. Measure your greenhouse gas emissions and set goals to reduce
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a critical part of building a sustainable business. The Business Carbon Calculator can help you measure your GHG emissions and set goals to reduce them. This tool provides an estimate of your business’s carbon footprint and identifies areas where you can reduce emissions. By setting clear goals and tracking your progress, you can reduce your impact on the environment and improve your bottom line.
3. Consider how to create a circular business model
Circularity is a key concept in sustainable business. By designing a circular business model, you can reduce waste and create a more sustainable business. Impact Hub has great resources on embedding circularity into your business model. They offer workshops, webinars, and other resources to help you design a more sustainable business.
4. Educate yourself on climate justice and deepen your DEI efforts
Sustainability is not just about protecting the environment; it’s also about promoting social justice and equity. It’s important to understand the intersection of sustainability, social justice, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The framework for business action on climate justice can help you deepen your DEI efforts and promote social justice in your business.
5. Take a look at your supply chain
Your supply chain can have a significant impact on your business’s social and environmental performance. The UN Global Compact has resources on sustainable procurement that can help you identify areas where you can reduce your environmental impact and improve your social performance. By working with suppliers who share your values and commitments, you can create a more sustainable and ethical supply chain.
As an impact entrepreneur, you have the power to make a positive difference in the world. By using these five essential tools, you can build a sustainable startup that prioritises social and environmental impact. As we celebrate Earth Week, let’s commit to building businesses that protect our planet and promote social justice. Together, we can create a better world for all.
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Picture this: a group of entrepreneurs sitting around a table, brainstorming ideas to solve the world’s most pressing issues. Inevitably, the conversation turns to climate change, and the group realises that they have the power to make a real impact – here, now, and at scale. This realisation has been the driving force behind Impact Hub Network’s work for over 15 years, and today, we’re more committed than ever to taking serious climate action.
That’s why in November 2022, we made a bold commitment to work collectively towards a net zero emissions standard by the end of 2025. Our goal is to empower Impact Makers worldwide to achieve neutral or positive environmental impact, and we’re thrilled to report that 44% of our Impact Hubs are already leading the charge towards this ambitious target.
In our latest article, we highlighted the incredible work of Impact Hub London, Curitiba, and Lusaka as they reduced their Scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions. Now, we’re excited to welcome three new Impact Hubs to the ranks of net zero pioneers: Impact Hub Leipzig, Impact Hub Madrid, and Impact Hub Stockholm. So grab a seat and get ready to be inspired by the valuable insights, strategies, and advice shared by these impactful teams as they pave the way for a sustainable future. Here’s what the Impact Hubs have to say:
Impact Hub Leipzig
Impact Hub Leipzig is a leading example of how businesses can prioritise sustainability and take responsibility for their environmental impact. Their motivation to become net zero is a simple yet powerful one: it’s the right thing to do. They have been successful in achieving this goal for the past three years through a range of initiatives, including:
- Impact Hub Leipzig sources from regional and green suppliers, such as using water-free reusable stone paper from MOYU, which reduces their carbon footprint and contributes to a circular economy.
- They use a regional energy supply that is fully under their control to ensure it comes from sustainable sources.
- They implemented a worm box for organic waste, which helps reduce waste and provides a source of natural fertiliser for their plants.
- The company avoids the use of company cars, which further reduces their carbon footprint and encourages sustainable transportation options.
Impact Hub Leipzig has established a valuable partnership with the Wilderness International Foundation. This partnership has led to the creation of a carbon calculator that all Impact Hubs can implement directly into their websites via an iframe. The calculator was initially filled out by the Impact Hub Leipzig team, and the Wilderness International Foundation made it suitable for all Impact Hubs to use. As a result, Impact Hub Dresden and Impact Hub Hamburg have already adopted the solution. The carbon calculator provides a useful tool for measuring and managing the carbon footprint of Impact Hubs, and it is a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership in tackling climate change.
By incorporating these measures into their business plan and budget, Impact Hub Leipzig has demonstrated that taking proactive and innovative measures towards sustainability can make a significant difference.
Explore more information on HERE and HERE (content in German).
Impact Hub Stockholm
Impact Hub Stockholm is a shining example of how small steps can lead to significant progress towards sustainability. The team firmly believes that taking climate action is not just a choice, but a calling and commitment that is embedded in the DNA of the Impact Hub community.
What’s impressive is that they didn’t require any funding to kickstart their sustainability journey. Initially, they approached Zero Mission in Sweden, which helped Max Burgers, the world’s first restaurant with a climate-positive menu. However, the costs would have exceeded €7,000 for Scopes 1 and 2 alone. As a result, they decided to turn to the global Impact Hub Network to find inspiration, build connections, and leverage opportunities.
One of these connections was a small business that was seeking to expand its case studies who agreed to collaborate free of charge. It wasn’t easy to persuade them, but eventually, they agreed to offer a climate-positive certification if Impact Hub Stockholm could meet the standard for climate-neutral and offset 150% of their unavoidable emissions.
Their advice to other Impact Hubs striving for net zero or carbon-neutrality is to start small. Instead of focusing on offsetting unavoidable emissions, they recommend beginning by eliminating avoidable emissions.
This is a sound strategy as it enables businesses to pinpoint areas where they can make an immediate impact without incurring significant costs. All in all, Impact Hub Stockholm’s journey towards sustainability is an excellent example of how every business can make a positive contribution to the environment, regardless of size.
Impact Hub Madrid
Impact Hub Madrid’s dedication to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions is a direct reflection of their mission to make a positive impact. They understand the importance of transparency and trust, which is why they have taken proactive steps towards a carbon-neutral future.
By transitioning to renewable energy sources, they have eliminated all Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, paving the way for tackling their Scope 3 emissions. They have implemented various measures such as low-flow toilets, faucet aerators, and encouraging their employees to switch to renewable energy at home.
To ensure their sustainability goals are met, Impact Hub Madrid has established a team of Sustainability Ambassadors from each department. They work together to identify and implement environmentally friendly practices, holding monthly meetings to gather and put forward innovative ideas.
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