As advancements in technology progress and more companies look for ways to begin helping the environment, it is not only becoming more cost effective to ‘go green’, it just makes sound business sense. Operating a green business is not only good for the environment but good for your business’s bottom line. Conserving resources and cutting down on waste, simply saves money and helps our environment. Take a minute to examine these simple ideas on ways you and your business can become more environmentally friendly. Implement some of these ideas and watch as your bottom line begins to grow.
1. Become Educated
Start by learning everything you can on ways to become more sustainable. There are new technologies at work everyday which offer ways to help your triple bottom line. Stay informed with environmental news and green business trends to identify areas you can improve on. By becoming educated in ways to be more sustainable, you will not only build your green brand, you will earn respect from potential clients, customers and your peers.
2. Use Less Paper
Even though it’s one of the easiest materials to re-use and recycle, paper makes up almost 35% of office waste. Help reduce this waste by using as little paper as possible and be smart about the paper you do use. Instead of printing out every email you receive and filing them away in storage containers, organize your inbox and back-up copies of important files and emails and keep them on an external drive. When you do need to print important documents, make sure to use recycled paper and set your printer to print on both sides of the page.
3. Pull The Plug
Whether in use or not, all electrical devices draw energy when plugged in. You’re not working all night, so why does your computer need to be on all night? Turn off everything you can when you leave your office. Plug your computers, printers, external hard drives and all electrical devices or gadgets into a power strip that can easily be turned off or even unplugged at the end of each work day. Make it a habit to unplug all power cords when not in use and you will save money.
4. Watch Your Waste
Recycling becomes second nature with practice. Place paper recycling bins in convenient locations all around your office. Keep clearly labeled bins near every trash can and remember to separate your waste. Plastics in one bin, paper and cardboard in another and aluminum cans or other metal waste in another. In time, watching your waste becomes second nature and you will find yourself looking for ways to cut back on waste. In addition to recycling the usual paper, cans, bottles, etc., don’t forget about the e-waste. Always recycle old electronics like cell phones, computers, cameras, etc. Many electronic and computer companies now offer ‘take-back’ programs for old computers and other electronic devices. Make use of these.
5. Work With The Like-Minded
Part of being a green business is making sure that you do your best to ensure your supply chain is green too. Seek out other like-minded businesses to partner with. Weather it’s printing business cards, hosting your web site or cleaning your office building, look for other environmentally conscience businesses to work with. Chances are, there are businesses in your area that are also going green. By working with as many local suppliers and vendors in your area you are helping your local economy which is just one more important aspect of being a sustainable business.
While there are clearly many more ways to operate an environmentally friendly business, use this list to begin doing your part to help our planet and your bottom line is sure to grow. Let this article inspire you to find as many ways as you can to cut back on waste and become more green and your business will only grow.
About the Author
Even designers have to cook.
