More and more consumers are communicating how important it is to connect with and support brands that share their same values. If your business is already doing the work to become sustainable, you need to connect with eco-conscious customers in a transparent and genuine way. Here’s how. 

Sustainability has become an increasingly important issue across all industries in recent years, including the marketing and advertising sector.

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, they expect the companies they support to also follow suit. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of sustainability in the marketing and advertising world and how you can incorporate it into your strategy. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Sustainability Matters in Marketing 

By incorporating sustainability into your messaging and practices, you can make a positive impact on the environment while enhancing your brand’s reputation. Here are a few reasons why sustainability matters in marketing and advertising.

Consumer Expectations

Consumers are increasingly demanding that the companies they support prioritize sustainability. According to a survey by Nielsen, 78% of consumers say they would be willing to change their consumption habits to reduce their impact on the environment. This includes recycling, using less plastic, and purchasing products that are made sustainably.

These findings indicate that sustainability is not just a passing trend, but a growing priority for consumers. Companies that prioritize sustainability in their marketing and advertising efforts have an opportunity to appeal to these environmentally conscious consumers and build long-term brand loyalty. However, it’s important for companies to be transparent and authentic in their sustainability claims to maintain consumer trust and avoid greenwashing.

Brand Reputation

Companies that prioritize sustainability are often seen as more ethical and trustworthy, which can enhance their brand reputation and attract loyal customers. This is particularly true for younger consumers, who are more likely to support companies that align with their values. 75% of Gen Z  said they wanted to see that brands were ensuring employee and consumer safety.

The survey found that “If [brands] are not authentic, Gen Z will be the first to raise a red flag.” This further underscores the importance of sustainability in marketing and advertising efforts, especially for companies that want to appeal to younger demographics. By incorporating sustainability into their marketing and advertising efforts, companies can appeal to these environmentally conscious consumers.

Cost Savings

Sustainable practices can have multiple benefits for companies. Reducing energy consumption and waste can lower operational costs and benefit the environment. Additionally, implementing recycling programs and reducing packaging waste can lower waste disposal costs and potentially generate revenue from selling recycled materials.

Secondly, sustainable practices can improve a company’s reputation and customer loyalty. This can translate to increased sales and revenue. A survey found that 75% of millennials are willing to work for environmentally responsible companies even if it means accepting a lower salary. Furthermore, almost 40% of respondents reported choosing one job over another because of an organization’s sustainability practices.

By focusing on sustainability, companies can contribute to environmental protection and improve their bottom line while attracting environmentally conscious consumers who prioritize sustainable practices when making purchasing decisions.

How to Incorporate Sustainability into Marketing and Advertising

Marketing communications that include printed materials and other PR activities, including branding and packaging can be especially tough on the environment.  There are many ways that companies can incorporate sustainability into their marketing and advertising efforts. Here are just a few examples:

1. Use Sustainable Materials: Businesses can use sustainable materials for promotional items and packaging. Items like recycled paper or biodegradable plastics can also be used over traditional products.
2. Reduce Waste: Reduce waste by using digital marketing techniques instead of print materials.
3. Partner with Sustainable Organizations:  Partner with organizations that promote sustainability, such as environmental charities or sustainable product manufacturers. Use their platforms to raise awareness about environmental issues.
4. Create Sustainable Campaigns: Create marketing campaigns that promote sustainable practices. Encourage customers to switch to reusable products.

Honesty and Transparency Matter

Your customers want to know how your products are made, from start to finish. If you can’t provide full transparency about an environmentally-friendly and fair supply chain, then you should think about optimizing it because companies now have to prove their contribution toward a sustainable future.

They also want to know what cause you support. If you’re a social enterprise, this is engrained in your core values, but also remember to be specific in your message and don’t write: “We donate 5 percent to charities.” as that tells us nothing. Be specific and write what 5 percent means and who you support. Write about your cause in a way that inspires, not brags because it’s not you who donates, it’s your customers.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to recognize the significance of sustainability and take steps toward implementing sustainable practices.

If you’re business is adopting a more sustainable presence, transition to a digital-focused marketing strategy that includes social media, text message marketing, live-streaming platforms, email, and other appropriate digital channels. Digital marketing significantly reduces carbon footprint and eliminates traditional marketing strategies – such as fliers – that are harmful to the environment.

At Onimod Global, we specialize in developing digital marketing and advertising strategies that prioritize your company’s unique values. If you’re interested in creating a customized strategy for your eco-friendly business, contact us here today. We’ll be happy to provide more information about our services and how we can help you achieve your digital marketing goals.