How can you measure the environmental impact of your trend forecasting process?

1 Why it matters

The environmental impact of your trend forecasting process is not only about the materials and resources you use to create your prototypes, samples, and presentations. It is also about the sources of information and inspiration you rely on, the methods and tools you employ, and the outcomes and implications of your forecasts. All of these aspects can have positive or negative effects on the environment, depending on how you approach them.

2 What to measure

To measure the environmental impact of your trend forecasting process, you need to identify the key indicators and metrics that reflect your environmental performance. These can vary depending on your industry, sector, and scope, but some common ones include the carbon footprint, which measures the amount of greenhouse gas emissions generated by activities such as travel and energy use; the water footprint, which considers the amount of water consumed or polluted by material production, dyeing, and washing; the material footprint, which looks at the amount of natural or synthetic materials used or discarded; and the biodiversity footprint, which evaluates the impact of activities on ecosystems, species, and habitats.

3 How to measure

To measure the environmental impact of your trend forecasting process, you need to collect and analyze data on your indicators and metrics. There are various methods and tools available to do this, such as life cycle assessment (LCA), environmental impact assessment (EIA), carbon footprint calculator, and water footprint calculator. LCA is a systematic way of assessing the environmental impacts of a product or service throughout its life cycle. EIA is a process of evaluating the potential environmental effects of a proposed project or policy, taking into account its alternatives and mitigation measures. Carbon footprint calculator and water footprint calculator are tools that estimate the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted, as well as the amount of water used or polluted by your activities, based on your inputs and assumptions.

4 How to reduce

To reduce the environmental impact of your trend forecasting process, you should implement strategies and actions that minimize your environmental footprint and maximize your environmental benefits. This can include adopting a circular economy approach, such as designing products and services to be durable, reusable, repairable, and recyclable, as well as using renewable or recycled materials. Additionally, you should choose low-impact sources and methods when selecting information and inspiration sources that are credible, relevant, and ethical. Furthermore, it is important to communicate your impact by sharing your environmental goals, achievements, and challenges with stakeholders such as customers, suppliers, and partners. Inviting their feedback and support can be beneficial as well.

5 How to improve

To improve the environmental impact of your trend forecasting process, you need to monitor and evaluate your performance and progress, and identify areas and opportunities for improvement. This can be achieved by setting SMART goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound for your environmental impact, tracking your indicators and metrics, and collecting and analyzing data on a regular basis. Additionally, you can seek external verification or certification for your environmental impact, such as ISO 14001, B Corp, or LEED. Following their standards and guidelines will help you measure the success of your efforts.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?