An eco-friendly outlook not only benefits the environment, it can benefit your business. By adopting green business practices, your company can create a healthier workplace, save money and create a positive image.
Adopt any of the following 8 tips that can help your business be more sustainable and green:
1. Print less
Offices print and throw away exorbitant amounts of paper a day. Use technology whenever possible as an alternative to printing physical documents.
For example:
- Use a company shared drive to transfer and update documents
- Offer employees and clients downloadable PowerPoint slides instead of individual packets
Printing less usually just requires the time and effort from each employee to consider a greener solution. Make it a priority for your staff!
2. Use less paper
Whether you’re demolishing your Post-it piles, hitting the print button less frequently or consolidating how much writing you fit onto a notepad, reducing the amount of paper you use helps your company’s budget and the planet’s trees.
Consider the follow tips:
- Use whiteboards to take notes or outline objectives instead of notepads or Post-its
- Print paper double-sided
- Send emails in place of faxes and physical memos
3. Hire a green cleaning company
Many commercial cleaning companies offer green cleaning programs that include safe and healthy products and cleaning techniques. Ask your cleaning company if they clean with non-toxic and biodegradable products or how they provide environmentally conscious cleaning methods.
4. Cut back on travel
Can you business afford to cut back on travel expenses and reduce greenhouse emissions? You may need to reconsider your business tactics that eliminate excessive driving and high amounts of gas. Reprioritize your reasons for traveling, carpool or use a GPS to eliminate the possibility of getting lost. Walk, bike or use public modes of transportation whenever possible.
5. Renovate your store, office building or facility
Your lighting and HVAC systems may actually be burning more energy than is necessary. Many electrical companies offer system upgrades that help buildings maximize energy and cut back on high utility costs.
Energy-efficient solutions include:
- Lighting retrofits
- Programmable thermostats
- Ceiling fans
- Heat-reflective windows and blinds
- Routine tune-ups and maintenance services
- Weather-stripping and caulking to prevent leaks and increase ventilation
6. Incorporate green products
Can your business offer more energy-efficient products or incorporate green products into your services? For example, if you’re a flooring company, your services can include a non-toxic sealant or volatile organic compound-free (VOC) finish.
7. Recycle
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. These three “R’s” can be applied to any type of business. Take the time to research and implement an effective recycling program. For example, offices can recycle unused printer paper, plastic and cans. Cut back on disposable cups, plates and utensils. Recycle toner cartridges and reduce packaging. Auto repair shops, for example, can adopt recycling practices such as antifreeze, battery and solvent recycling.
8. Buy green-certified office supplies
Stock your store or office with green office supplies from websites such as thegreenoffice.com or dolphinblue.com. Even replacing certain supplies with eco-friendly alternatives is a step in the right direction.
Taking small steps toward becoming a greener business makes a difference. Green awareness will help your business save energy, reduce waste and take part in social change!