Are you thinking you should be a more environmentally friendly business? It sounds expensive, right?
It’s a sound investment for several reasons. According to most business leaders’, environmental issues are going to feature in the regulatory and market landscape more and more (we already have changes to CCL, ESOS and CRC Reporting requirements this year). Energy-efficient companies will be better able to navigate these regulatory changes and be better positioned to withstand negative events like energy price spikes or the general increase in energy costs year on year.
Consumers are savvier than of old and are flocking to safe, non-toxic, green products. People are becoming more conscious of their choices and are willing to invest more in a product to participate in this movement and to protect their family.
That alone could be enough motivation. Consider also that many of the world’s largest organizations are investing billions of pounds into environmental sustainability programs – a good indication that small business owners should follow suit.
The good news is that a green program doesn’t have to cost a fortune for a small business. Following are some simple steps to kick off your sustainability program. Many options will, most importantly, save you money in the long term.
Thinking Green – a Part of Your Company Culture.
Engage your everyone in your new vision. Create goals and make it fun and inclusive by celebrating your success. How can you measure your savings? How will your green mission enhance your community or better serve your customers? Get ideas and input from your staff and customers and they will embrace your new goals.
Change to Environmentally Friendly Lighting.
You won’t save 10 million kWh of electricity each year like the Asda or Tesco’s have done but swapping to LED lighting is worth the investment. LEDs use far less energy and do not contain mercury and other toxic gases contained by incandescent and fluorescent lights. They are more expensive upfront but will last about five times longer and use up to 60% less energy other bulbs. This means reduced service costs as well as direct consumption savings. You could be spending 1/5th of the time on maintenance. Now imagine these lights normally require a scaffold or platform to access them and the benefits just get better.
Eliminate Plastic Bottles.
In 2011, 32 million tons of plastic waste was generated in the UK alone. Some of this plastic is recycled but why add to the environmental problem? Install a water filtration system in the office. Not only will the water be fresh and clean, but you will save time and money by avoiding the packaged water habit.
Do Business With Green Suppliers.
Interview your suppliers to find out about their sustainability efforts. If you still use or need printed material, why not ask your printer to choose the recycled paper options available. Look for companies that use energy efficient vehicles and manufacturing plants that have practices in place to reduce their carbon footprint.
Conserve Human Energy.
Consider that healthy, energetic employees will be more creative and productive. Help to keep your team healthy by creating a safe, non-toxic environment. Consider air quality, light levels and maybe look at ergonomic assessments? Serve sustainable brain food at meetings: nuts, organic fruits and vegetables, not crisps, buns or pastries. If you still need to show you care, even dark chocolate can help maintain a positive mental attitude.
Host a Fundraising Event.
Social responsibility affiliations are excellent for your image and public relations; and it feels good to support something that is meaningful and far reaching. Therefore, adopt an environmental cause and host a fund-raising event. There are all sorts of conservation campaigns you can participate in, from planting trees to raising funds for environmental studies or scholarships. Ask your colleagues for suggestions, it’s a great way to get them on board and find one that’s close to your heart. Involve your on-line community through social media and local neighbours through events or open days. Why not give back a little by inviting schools to see what you are doing to help the environment? And it’s a great excuse for a press release after all!
Recycle and Reuse.
How often do you toss old papers and used glass and plastics into the waste bin? Why not review your recycling program and enlist the support of your team to meet recycling goals? If your current waste management hasn’t been looked at in a while and if you don’t think it’s green enough, do something about it. There are no issues with the quality these days so why not purchase recycled paper products and ink cartridges as well? Even certain furniture and other big-ticket items contain recycled goods and can help you be more environmentally friendly.
Use Green Cleaning Products.
Do you love the smell of a nice, clean office? Many of those familiar scents are toxic to your body and not environmentally friendly. Replace window cleaners, dish and hand soaps, and bathroom cleaners with green brands. Some of them may seem pricey but many are concentrated and will save money in the end. The benefits include improved health, increased clarity, a reduction in allergic reactions, and a healthier planet. A small price to pay.
Sustainable development cannot be achieved in isolation. Everyone must participate. You will demonstrate your leadership and commitment to a healthy, safe future by joining those business leaders who make sustainable choices.
We’d love to hear your ideas and success stories. What have you done to green your business?
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