Click here to get this post in PDF
Green businesses are in fashion and they’re here to stay. Consumers are becoming more and more vocal about how important they believe the environment is, and they are supporting businesses that respect the environment and do as much as they can to reduce their impact on the world around them. Many small businesses are unaware of the impact they can make on the planet when they make eco-conscious choices surrounding their company. Your small business won’t turn green overnight, but there are a handful of changes you can make right away to help the planet.
1. Invest in Specialist Recycling Machinery
Depending on the type of industry you’re working in, you may find it useful to invest in professional recycling machinery for your business. Having these types of specialist machines on-site can reduce downtime in your business and ensure that your materials are being disposed of properly. Whether you’re looking for cable stripper machines or aluminum recycling machines, there are so many different options for you to look into.
2. Be Mindful of Lighting
Energy-efficient lighting can reduce your bills and ensure that your carbon footprint is as low as possible. LED bulbs are by far the best options as they use much less electricity than other types of light bulbs on the market.
3. Opt for the Paperless Life
Printing off emails and meeting agendas are truly a thing of the past when it comes to running a green small business. As well as freeing up space in your office, you are also reducing your ecological footprint at the same time.
4. Reusable Drinks Cups Are a Must
Instead of offering paper and plastic cups for water and coffee around the office, why not encourage your employees to reuse theirs? When you manage expectations it becomes the norm around the office, so this is certainly something you can start promoting right away.
5. Mindful Commuting
Instead of driving to work every day, you should encourage your employees to car-share, work from home, or cycle into work. You could offer incentives to employees who choose to take your advice on board too.
6. Invest in Office Plants
Having live, green plants in and around the office are a great way to improve the air supply. Plants also help to absorb unwanted pollutants and create additional oxygen for your employees. Whether you encourage employees to bring in their own plants, or you supply them yourself, they’re a great way to start operating a greener business.
7. Building Efficiency
As well as opting for energy-efficient light bulbs, you should also think about how you can turn your building into a more energy-efficient place to work. Whether you need to adjust the overall temperature in the building or close the windows when the heating is on, there are small and simple things you can do that make a big difference.
Taking action today and moving towards a greener way of life for your business will gain you more respect in your industry and help you to reduce your impact on the environment. Hopefully, some of the ideas mentioned above will provide you with inspiration to cultivate change in your business sooner rather than later.
You may also like: 6 Ways To Go Green for Your Small Business
Image source: Shutterstock.com
