Climate change is one of the biggest problems facing our planet and slowing its progress is more essential than ever before.
There are many things that we can all do to go green, including implementing eco-friendly policies into our business practices.
However, not only is a green mindset great for the planet, but it can do wonders for your profit margins too. While you might be concerned that environmental policies can have a negative effect on your finances – some solutions can be expensive – they can pay off. In fact, research shows that consumers are driving the move to sustainability through their desire to support companies that share their values.
So, if you can demonstrate that you’re invested in the protection of the planet, not only can you conduct your business with a clear conscience, but you can also increase loyalty in your customers.
Are you a business owner looking to go green? Here are just four ways to get started!
1) Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is not only a good environmental decision to make for your company, but with rising energy bills, it can be an excellent financial one too.
Consider having solar panels installed on your property, or even just sign up with environmentally minded providers such as Octopus Energy.
Renewable energy is the way forward, so introducing this to your business is a great way to go green.
2) Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Reduce, reuse, recycle has been a mantra for years now, but it doesn’t mean that it’s any less important. Reducing the pollutants that our businesses put out into the world is vitally important.
Have you provided ways for your employees to recycle while they’re at work? Something as simple as the correct bins and guidance on what goes in them can make all the difference and drastically reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Another problem for some businesses, particularly the food and construction industries, is water pollution. You need to ensure that your waste water isn’t having a negative impact on the planet. Luckily, companies such as Smart Storm provide a wide range of waste water solutions to solve your pollution problems.
3) Electric Vehicles
If you provide your employees with a company car, then why not consider going electric?
This is of course a more costly option to you – though a cheaper option for your staff so you’ll certainly win favours with them! – so it might not be viable for every business.
However, if it’s something that you can afford, then you’ll drastically help to reduce the carbon footprint of your employees.
4) Remote Working
If you can’t afford electric company cars, another carbon footprint reducing option to consider is remote working.
The pandemic proved that many of our careers can be carried out from home, and lock down drastically reduced the amount of cars on the road. After all, there were suddenly a lot less people commuting to and from the office.
If your employees demonstrated their productivity while working from home, consider making remote working a permanent arrangement.
Tell us how your company has gone green in the comments below!