Individual efforts in keeping the environment healthy through sustainable and eco-friendly practices aren’t enough. Businesses and companies are among the largest sources of energy consumption and greenhouse gases, and they leave a significant carbon footprint.
Because climate issues affect everyone, it’s also to businesses’ benefit to do their part in reducing their operation’s impact on the environment. Let’s take a look at a few practices that can help promote a more sustainable business format.
Go Digital, Go Paperless
In the years before, offices were known to use excessive amounts of paper. Reams upon reams are used daily, as the paper was the only reliable way to store data. Along with needing paper, businesses also needed large metal filing cabinets to secure the hard copy of data.
Fortunately, we don’t need this as much anymore. Through digital media storage, businesses can completely cut their paper, pen, and other stationery expenses while increasing their efficiency level. This reduces the reliance on paper, an expandable material from wood, and everything connected to paper use.
Have a Company-supported Recycling Program
To make an impact as an eco-friendly individual or a business, you should not limit your efforts to yourself. Integrate eco-friendly practices in the office, as it will promote sustainability and ethical energy use.
There are many aspects in the workplace where we can make changes to make things more sustainable, efficient, and nature-friendly. Utilize proper waste disposal through renting reliable on-site dumpster services and practice good disposal within the office by designating specific trash bins for different types of trash.
Save Energy (and Expenses)
Another area where a business can help promote sustainable practices is through energy conservation. And this not just benefits the environment but also reduces your business expense by decreasing your utility bill. Turn off lights when not needed, and don’t forget to switch off and unplug electronic equipment during the less busy hours.
It’s critical to inform your staff to ensure that it’s a practice that everyone adheres to. Make it a company-wide effort, and you’re going to see positive results. Utilizing energy-efficient equipment is also a great idea, as many modern tools and equipment come with an integrated voltage regulator to prevent excessive use of energy.
Collaborate with Ethical Companies
Many businesses utilize green and ethical methods to contribute to keeping the environment’s longevity and differentiate themselves from the competition. It’s a wise idea to do business with these companies as they are guaranteed to use environmentally positive business practices.
Research which vendors and businesses employ ethical and eco-friendly methods, and see whether you can collaborate with them. You’ll be surprised by how many ethical companies there are, and of varying sizes too. Take the time to research, and you’ll find the service you’re looking for.
Reduce Trash by Using Reusables
Paper cups, paper plates, plastic spoons, and forks are common materials seen in an office pantry. But it’s wiser to eschew these disposable items and instead go for the more traditional and reusable options like glass cups or mugs, metal spoons and forks, and regular plates. This reduces waste, promotes healthy practices, and removes the need to constantly restock the pantry with disposable equipment.
However, the pantry isn’t the only area where you can use reusable items. Instead of throwing away your older computers when it’s time to upgrade, study whether you need to buy a new one or upgrade your existing ones. Your business can also opt to use software and applications that are less resource-intensive, meaning you can still use your older computers with the same functionality.
Make Use of Natural Light in the Office
As we mentioned before, turning off the lights when needed is one way to reduce electricity bills. However, you can also opt to make better use of natural light to provide a natural light source to your office. An interesting advantage to using natural light is that it connects with our body’s natural circadian rhythm.
What this means is that your staff will be less sleepy during the day. They can process vitamin D better and even help with their digestion. Overall, this results in higher productivity and efficiency, something businesses will always do better with.
Attempting to be eco-friendly in your business is difficult; there’s no doubt about that. But it’s a valiant effort that the world will benefit from, especially if more businesses adopt it. By promoting environmentally conscious efforts, your business is doing corporate social responsibility. This is on top of making your staff feel better and more satisfied.