A Closer Look

‘Sustainability’ Has Become A Focus For Local Businesses

Photo by kazuend on Unsplash

Lakes Region businesses such as Kellerhaus, Moulton Farm, and Vulgar Brewing Company are among the growing number of companies that are embracing sustainable practices as part of their operations.

“Sustainability” has become a buzzword for businesses and organizations, but the basic concepts are not new: embracing innovation and being mindful of risks while seeking cost reduction and competitive advantage. Those concepts are now expressed in terms of community well-being, conservation of resources, and promotion of economic vitality, but apart from having a better understanding of the limitations of resources and the consequences of improper disposal of byproducts, businesses have always recognized that, if they are to survive, they must provide something of value to customers while offering support to their communities.

The balanced approach to operating a business now focuses more on environmental and social issues, along with accountability, which means considering how land use, housing and transportation, renewable energy, and smart growth principles can be incorporated into business decisions. They are adapting to changes that create new constraints but also expand opportunities.

Businesses seeking to embrace sustainability can approach it through several different strategies.

The Lakes Region Planning Commission helps promote sustainability by addressing solid waste issues and the challenges of water pollution and transportation, while the Belknap County Economic Development Council provides resources, financing, and development programs to help navigate the challenges. The Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce assists by fostering collaboration among local businesses.

When Daryl Dawson purchased Kellerhaus in Laconia, he realized that he could increase profits by improving energy efficiency, so he contacted the New Hampshire Small Business Development Center to develop an energy plan.

Eversource, which is the largest electric supplier in the area, also promotes energy efficiency, sending experts to evaluate energy use in a home or business and providing incentives to upgrade equipment.