Talk by Enrique Pascual
[This is the first of a series of six articles devoted to analysing scenarios, tools and processes necessary to manage a book value chain that works with environmental sustainability criteria]
During the event on sustainability, organised by FGSR, Enrique Pascual (President of the Booksellers Association of Madrid) recently presented key insights and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability from the perspective of the bookshops. Although his presentation was more on retail, he highlighted the importance of addressing environmental impacts associated with book production, distribution and daily operations.
RISE Bookselling Report and Madrid Booksellers Association Guide
Enrique Pascual presented his analysis on RISE Bookselling report, which outlines comprehensive actions for reducing environmental impact across six key areas:
- Energy efficiency: Emphasized the importance of using LED lighting and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.
- Waste management: Advocated for reducing packaging waste and promoting recycling.
- Supply chain management: Encouraged bookshops to prioritize local suppliers to minimize transportation-related emissions.
- Circular economy: Suggested strategies for extending the lifecycle of books and other resources through initiatives like selling second-hand books.
- Customer awareness: Stressed the role of bookshops in educating customers about sustainable practices.
- Technology and management: Addressed the need for efficient digital management and reducing digital waste.
Pascual also referred to the guide developed by the Madrid Booksellers Association, focusing on practical steps that bookshops can implement locally. This guide covers aspects such as reducing waste, optimizing energy use, and engaging with sustainable suppliers.
Reflections from the management perspective in bookstores
Enrique Pascual is a reference in the world of books in Spain, both from his career in the world of bookstores and also in publishing. A fundamental part was based on his reflections on the European and Spanish panorama of the processes of the book industry and the challenges of environmental sustainability.
- Manufacturing and packaging
Pascual underlined the environmental impact of book manufacturing and packaging. He advocated for manufacturing fewer books while ensuring higher quality production. Additionally, he suggested using sustainable packaging materials and minimizing unnecessary promotional materials.
- Transportation and delivery
The presentation addressed the environmental impact of book deliveries and proposed strategies to minimize emissions. Suggestions included using bicycles or small vehicles for local deliveries and reducing the frequency of deliveries to consolidate shipments.
- Customer awareness and education
Pascual emphasized the role of bookshops in educating customers about sustainable choices. This includes promoting reusable packaging options, encouraging responsible consumption, and raising awareness about the environmental costs of fast delivery services.
- Policy and industry collaboration
Collaboration with industry stakeholders and policymakers was highlighted as essential for implementing sustainable practices effectively. Pascual stressed the importance of aligning industry standards and policies to support environmentally responsible practices across the bookshop sector.
