How Going Green is Possible for Every Small Business

Businesses all over the world are making a conscious effort to adopt eco-friendly practices in their operations. In fact, in the year 2014, around 51% of American companies have announced their targeted greenhouse gas reduction levels. By going green, you not only contribute to the preservation of the environment, but you’re also likely to have higher sales. That’s because 71% of Americans will factor in the impact on the environment when shopping. And, at least 55% of consumers surveyed in 60 countries said that they’re open to paying more for goods manufactured by companies making reasonable attempts at going green in their operations.

If you’ve been considering making significant changes in the working of your small business, know that it is not all that difficult. Here are a few of the most convenient eco-friendly practices you can adopt.

Choose Post-Consumer Waste (PCW) Paper

Businesses make use of paper, various paper products, and packaging materials in their operations. In place of new paper, use PCW paper that uses 45% less power in the making process. Recycled paper also reduces wastage by 50% and cuts back on carbon emissions. If you cannot find entirely recycled paper in your going green efforts, opt for products that have the highest percentage of PCW.

Recycle All the Waste Possible

Offices and manufacturing units generate a surprising amount of waste. Install colored recipients with logos so your employees can segregate and dispose of waste responsibly. You can also choose bins according to the different categories of waste your small business typically generates. Accordingly, pick out paper, plastic, electronics, metal, glass, and even, organic items.

Install Energy-Saving Light Fixtures

Replace all incandescent bulbs and tubes with CFL and LED fixtures. While you’re likely to spend a little more on these options as compared to the standard light bulbs, you’ll notice that you spend less on the power consumption. Eventually, you’re likely to save up to $200 per bulb. And, since the power-saving fixtures last you much longer than incandescent fixtures, you’ll soon recover the additional cost which is a huge positive in your going green strategies.

Invite Energy Auditors to Check Your Workplace

Professional energy auditors can evaluate your home and workplace for the repairs you need to undertake to seal the small cracks and leaks in the insulation and airtightness. By making these changes, you can save up to 20% on the costs of heating and cooling the office and work premises. Some states may offer you free energy audits and assist you in the repairs needed.

Purchase Refurbished Equipment

Every workplace needs different equipment including computers, machinery, printers, copiers, and many more. As far as possible, opt for refurbished laptops, cellphones, tablets, and any other items by way of your going green policy. With a little research on online stores like Amazon, eBay, ReUseTek, or any other, you should be able to find barely used equipment for very economical prices. You can also consider searching the websites of the original manufacturers for their collection of checked, repaired, and repackaged products. By purchasing these products, you maximize their usage and prevent them from reaching landfills.

Adopt the Use of Biodegradable Cleansing Agents

Should you check the stores, you’ll find biodegradable cleansing agents like detergents, soaps, and any others you need around the workplace. With some amount of searching, you could pick out bulk packages that are more economical. These products are not just good for the environment, but they also protect your employees from exposure to toxins and other chemicals in the office area. The result – they’ll support your going green efforts enthusiastically.

Look for Alternative Energy Sources to Power Your Workplace

Sustainable power can be generated from wind and solar, hydropower, and geothermal sources. Contact your utility provider and ask about the green energy alternatives. In your efforts for going green, you might have to pay a slightly higher price for the power that goes towards the purchase of clean energy and feeding it into the electric supply grid. If your budget allows, consider installing solar panels to generate electricity for your workplace.

Choose Sustainable Inputs

Choose sustainable and eco-friendly raw materials for creating your products. Talk about your going green efforts on the company website and product packaging. You’ll find that your customers appreciate the fact and are likely to choose your products over those of your competitors. They might also consider your products safer to use. Even if they have to pay more, they may be okay with that.

Encourage your employees to follow your going green policy in every way they can. Carpooling, using hybrid vehicles, taking public transportation, choosing digital options over paperwork are different methods you can ask them to use. Make sure to let all customers and business partners know about the eco-friendly practices you’ve adopted. And, each time you earn a badge or a certificate lauding your efforts, add it on your website.
Do keep in mind that the going green policies you adopt are likely to pay off in the long run. You’ll have happy customers and also cut back on the costs of your operations. All it takes is some smart thinking and a little effort. Good Luck!!