The growing repercussions of climate change have pushed our planet into crises. Now, more than ever, we need to come together and do our part in preserving our planet.
While individual efforts do make a difference, it’s imperative for businesses to lift their end of the weight. Measures taken by businesses and governments are crucial for improving current environmental crises.
Contrary to what you might think, eco-friendly changes aren’t necessarily complicated or expensive. In fact, certain changes can bring down your operational expenses in the long run. Take a look at some ways you can make your business more environmentally friendly.
Go Paperless
In the current digital world, it’s neither practical nor economical to depend entirely on paper documentation. Managing paper documents is labour intensive and time-consuming.
It’s a smart idea to digitise all your documents. This will bring down your paper requirements and also reduce your overall operational costs.
Energy-Efficient Workplace
Electricity is something most businesses can’t do without. But you can keep your consumption in check by making energy-efficient changes to your workplace.
Start by replacing incandescent bulbs and CFLs with LED lights. Your business premises should also be properly insulated to prevent energy loss.
Conserve Energy and Water
It’s imperative to consume energy consciously. Leaving lights and computers on when not in use will just drive up your energy bills and carbon footprint.
Make energy and water conservation a part of your company culture. To make it less employee dependent, you can consider investing in motion sensor lights and automate the process.
Waste Management
Proper waste management reduces environmental pollution and conserves energy. It would be foolish to overlook this aspect if you wish to keep our planet healthy.
Waste management can be mundane and understandably, you probably have other tasks that require your attention. It’s best to get an external expert like A Better Service Ltd involved. They offer convenient and efficient waste management solutions.
Start Recycling
Just the desire to recycle is not enough. You need to provide the proper means to encourage recycling at the workplace. Place recycling bins throughout the office so that employees don’t have an excuse for not doing their part. Make sure someone takes the responsibility of handing over the recycling to a local recycling unit.
You can even recoup some cash for your business selling iPads and other old tech gadgets no longer used through online recycling sites.
Encourage Carpooling
Encourage your employees to pick a greener way of commuting. Whether that’s carpooling or using public transportation, it’s an easy way to help the environment. Additionally, it can also help employees save money in terms of fuel and vehicle maintenance costs.
Purchase Second-Hand Equipment
From computers to construction machinery, it has never been easier to purchase second-hand equipment. You can get your hands on gently used electronics and equipment at discounted prices. In addition to saving a significant amount, your business will create less electronic waste. And you might want to use a reputable gadget recycler, like Plunc if for instance you need to recycle Apple products.
Switch to Renewable Energy
Conventionally, energy is generated by burning fossil fuels. This process increases greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere and thereby, contributes to global warming.
It would be better for the environment if you partly or completely power your business operations with renewable energy sources. With the growing concern for the environment, more and more energy retailers are offering solar, hydro and other forms of renewable energy plans.
Introduce Remote Working
The majority of the day-to-day expenses of a business are taken up office rent and utility bills. It is possible to lower these expenses while helping the environment by introducing Work From Home policies. Not only this, but employees can also save time and money by eliminating daily commute.
Work with Green Vendors
If you’re serious about bettering the environment, it’s vital to take your dedication beyond the four walls of your business. You can do this by projecting your eco-consciousness on your business vendors. Make it a mission to associate and work with green vendors. When you attach a monetary aspect to any cause, it’s bound to gain traction and encourage other vendors to go green.
Final Words
These simple changes offer an easy way to progress towards running a sustainable business. We hope our tips inspire you to do that right thing for our planet.
