Channeling Sustainability: The Hidden Key to ESG Success

We are in an age of increasing consumer consciousness when it comes to sustainability — corporate sustainability in particular has been under tough scrutiny. Consumers have grown more discerning, with a heightened awareness of greenwashing and skepticism toward superficial sustainability claims.

Organisations are increasingly expected to adopt and demonstrate robust sustainability practices both internally and within their supply chains. Consequently, environmental, social and governance (ESG) policies and practices have made their way to the top of corporate agendas. Businesses are allocating significant resources and effort to progress toward their ESG goals; however, translating that action into tangible results can be hard.

Channel resellers play a crucial role as trusted advisors and ESG experts to support shared customers in their sustainability endeavours by making information and advice readily available. Channel resellers can help organisations to seamlessly integrate ESG principles into their operations and customer interactions, increasing the credibility and effectiveness of their sustainability initiatives. In turn, by bridging the gap between businesses and consumers, these partners can ensure that sustainability efforts are transparent, authentic and aligned with broader corporate goals.

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Providing Life Cycle Management Services

Life cycle management services play a crucial role in sustainable IT asset management (registration required), encompassing the lifespan of a device — from procurement and usage to disposal, recycling and second-life placement. Although customers look to channel partners as experts on the products, they may not be aware that channel resellers can advise on effective product life cycle management.

Channel partners are vital spokespeople for the value of proper device recycling, underlining that it is essential and involving not only the disposal of electronic waste in an environmentally responsible manner, but also refurbishing devices to a high standard. Refurbished devices may be donated to charities or the local community, placed back within the business or sold. Further, second-life devices may be a suitable option for customers looking for new hardware, boasting significant value for money and a reduction in the company's overall carbon footprint.

Supporting Remote Workers with Efficient IT Supplies

Remote work has become an integral part of today's work culture. Companies must provide robust IT services to ensure hybrid workers can operate efficiently from home. According to HP's Work Relationship Index, only 24% of UK desk-based workers report that their company chose the right tech to support hybrid work. This underscores the importance of making strategic IT investments that address immediate needs and support long-term business development and sustainability goals.

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To meet these needs, companies will increasingly turn to channel resellers for advice on the best devices and IT services for a hybrid workforce. This includes recommendations for energy-efficient devices and IT solutions that enhance productivity, reduce carbon footprints and limit IT downtime.

Moreover, channel resellers can emphasise that a well-supported remote working system can significantly reduce employee commute frequency and decrease the need for extensive office space. This not only boosts productivity and employee satisfaction but also supports the business in reducing its carbon footprint.

Empowering Long-Term Thinking

IT investments are integral to an organisation's ESG objectives, and channel partners are often advocates for the principle of "buying once and buying well." This highlights how investing in durable, future-proof hardware and software can lead to significant long-term savings, improved compliance and a strengthened reputation.

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Channel resellers can influence businesses to view devices as a three- to five-plus year investment, ensuring that the technology purchased today remains relevant and efficient for years to come. By adopting a forward-thinking approach, organisations can avoid the frequent need for upgrades, reducing electronic waste and contributing positively to their sustainability goals. Moreover, with the rapid pace of technological advancements, investing in scalable solutions not only supports ongoing business growth but also aligns with the evolving regulatory landscape, ensuring that businesses remain compliant and competitive in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

Organisations aren't always equipped with the ability, infrastructure or resources to achieve big environmental, social and governance goals — channel partners are a resource we know customers can lean on in helping them achieve their long-term sustainability goals. With proper training and technical know-how, channel partners can deliver tailored solutions that seamlessly integrate sustainable practices.