Green Business
Advice and tips to help your business minimise waste, reduce its effects on the environment and increase profits.
It always seems easier to talk about being environmentally friendly in our personal lives than at work, but businesses can make a big impact on climate change in the community. From saving energy and water through to recycling, reducing waste and green procurement policies.
With corporate social responsibility rising ever higher up the business agenda, we've put together some helpful advice and guidance to give green issues a boost.
Saving energy and water
Using less electricity, gas and water is not only a good decision for the environment, it shows savings for your business almost straight away.
Fit water control devices, such as low flush toilets and push taps wherever possible.
Switch to low energy lightbulbs - they use up to 80% less electricity than traditional bulbs.
Install thermostats to ensure you're not overheating your premises.
Green procurement
Your business' purchasing habits can easily make a difference to its carbon footprint. Some may cost a little more financially but they won't cost the earth!
Try to buy from local companies who produce their goods locally too.
Choose to buy your gas and electricity from renewable suppliers.
Always look to select products and services from sustainable sources.
Recycling
Recycling isn't just about splitting out your rubbish. Most of the equipment used in business can be reused or rehomed once finished with.
Think before you discard old machinery - perhaps it could be used in other parts of the world, or dismantled for spares.
Find a new home for furniture rather than taking it to the tip. Try schools, charity shops and community centres first.
Try to reuse consumables like print cartridges by having them refilled locally.
Waste management
If its not created in the first place, not only will you be reducing the emissions your business puts out, you'll be helping to reduce the emissions it would have taken to collect and dispose of it. Saving energy and adding to your bottom line!
Much of the paper we produce simply isn't needed. Consider the climate before you print.
Before you discard your paper rubbish, check whether it can be used again as scrap paper for notes.
If your business produces goods with packaging, look at sustainable sources and make the packaging as minimalist as possible.
