Going green is quickly becoming industry standard as companies recognize their responsibility to help preserve the planet we all share. With just a few changes, you can make a significant impact on lowering your carbon footprint, and see the difference in your bottom line. The following are some ideas to make your business more eco-friendly:
1. Look for Alternative Energy
Incentives for green energy are available for both large and small businesses. You’re probably familiar with renewable energy sources like solar and wind, but there are actually a variety of technologies that can generate sustainable energy, such as geothermal, plant matter and hydropower. When you look to make a power purchase agreement, search for available alternative options. Not only will you be helping your environment, you’ll be making a smart business decision.
2. Invest in Your Envelopes
It’s common knowledge that if you can cut the snail mail and go digital, that’s a great step toward eco-friendly. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to eliminate mailings altogether. For those items that you absolutely have to send, you can choose sustainable envelopes to make the delivery. There are a variety of options, including envelopes made from recycled paper, envelopes made from trees grown in sustainably managed forests, and even envelopes designed to be reused. If your company has a lot of correspondence, this can be another great way to cut costs.
3. Watch What You Throw Away
Each year, 230 million tons of waste is thrown away by Americans. That’s a truly shocking amount. Not only is that literally tons of junk that ends up in landfills all over the country, it’s a huge missed opportunity when it comes to supplies. There are several ways you can combat this kind of waste when it comes to office supplies. You can establish a policy or position to keep track of office supply use and identify behaviors that the office as a whole can change to decrease waste. Or you can invest in reusable supplies, like pens designed to be refilled with ink or the envelopes previously mentioned. The green industry is a fast-growing sector, and there are more and more options available every day.
4. Make the Change
It can be difficult to change the way you’ve always done business, but going green is a decision that will not only benefit your business, but has a global effect. Everyone has a responsibility to contribute to green solutions, especially as the consequences of climate change grow more visible. When you create an eco-friendly office, you’re investing not only in your business, but in this planet’s future.