Paul Hawken in The Ecology of Commerce neatly sums up sustainability when he writes "leave the world better than you found it, take no more than you need, try not to harm life or the environment, make amends if you do."

This philosophy has become crucial in today's world. Reducing energy consumption and cutting carbon emissions have become two of the greatest challenges facing governments and businesses worldwide. WSP Environmental, a British-based global environmental consultancy, is responding proactively by working closely with businesses to help them meet their growing energy and resource requirements while minimizing their impact on the environment and the climate.

While sustainable growth is still highest on the agenda in those countries with stable economies, this issue is assuming more importance in Poland with a corresponding increase in demand for the services provided by WSP Environmental.

More international clients are demanding sustainable building design now that the extent to which property affects climate change by contributing to greenhouse gas emissions is becoming better understood. A 1,500 sq m, 10-story commercial building, for example, emits around 900 tonnes of CO2 a year. This is equivalent to 17 return trips to the moon!

There's a lot to be said for low carbon emissions apart from the obvious environmental benefits. Energy costs are reduced, such properties can be projected as part of a corporate brand image, low carbon building may fulfil CSR agenda and market visibility is enhanced. Properties with better energy ratings will only increase in value as legal requirements become more stringent and this cannot fail to influence business decisions. To take but one example, the European Directive on Energy Performance for Building comes into force in Poland next year. Finally, sustainable design can guarantee that Poland benefits from funding from such bodies as the EU, the World Bank and, increasingly, from Public-Private Partnerships.

While most global companies have incorporated sustainability into their policy, small and medium-sized enterprises still have some way to go. But this issue goes beyond legal and commercial considerations. I believe that decisions made in accordance with the principles of Sustainable Development are the ethical decisions of the 21st century and that this applies to all of us.

Magdalena Stretton
Country Manager WSP Enviro Sp. z o.o.