Pivoting your business toward eco-friendly practices is not only good for the environment, but it’s also helpful to your bottom line. Sustainable business practices are becoming more economically efficient in both short and long-term scenarios. Going green also sets your company apart in the industry, attracting more stockholders and clients.
Reducing your company’s carbon footprint doesn’t require a whole new business plan. Several simple adaptations take significant steps toward sustainability. Consider these six tips for eco-friendly efficiency.
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Embrace a Remote Work Model
The COVID-19 pandemic forced many people to conduct work from within the confines of their homes, and some companies are considering permanently adopting remote policies. When allowed to work in a comfortable and familiar setting, employees have demonstrated increased productivity and improved quality of work.
Businesses aren’t the only ones benefiting from work from home models, however. The environment is also experiencing a positive impact. The reduction in commutes has cut greenhouse gas emissions considerably, and studies estimate that staying home for just half of the workweek reduces emissions by 54 million tons each year.
Additionally, introducing a digital mailbox diminishes paper waste and power usage that would typically go toward a physical office space. Digital mailboxes from providers like iPostal1 also help you strike tedious tasks from your workflow and prevent high-priority mail from falling under your radar. If a remote work model is the natural next step in your business’s five-year plan, utilize your digital mailbox address to develop a professional business image in the eyes of curious searchers and protect the environment from plagues of discarded spam mail.
With a digital mailbox at your aid, transitioning to a fully remote model (and doing your part to minimize your carbon footprint) will be a cinch.
Invest in Sustainable Products
Commonly used products can easily be traded out for sustainable alternatives for little if any added cost. For example, switching out plastic kitchen utensils and plates for reusable items that employees can quickly wash after each use. For products like toilet paper or reams of paper, office managers should check for post or pre-consumer labels that indicate recycled material. Even cleaning products can be traded in for greener solutions.
Opt for Green Web Hosting Services
Many don’t consider the amount of energy expended by websites. Luckily, most web services are making a push toward renewable energy resources, including GreenGeeks, HostPapa, and iPage. Switching to eco-friendly providers is surprisingly affordable, and you won’t sacrifice quality. Huge companies like Google and Facebook have already made the jump to green web hosting.
Recycle e-Waste
The rapid advance of technology forces businesses to upgrade their electronic devices constantly. Items like computers, cell phones, televisions, and more fill landfills every year with 49 million tons of trash. Instead of tossing out e-waste, commit your business to responsible e-waste initiatives. Most cities offer local recycling programs and charities like Cell Phones for Soldiers that accept donations for a meaningful cause.
Make Eco-Friendly Upgrades
Upgrading appliances around the office helps shrink your company’s carbon footprint while reducing the energy bill. Simple changes like LED lights, automated lights, smart thermostats, and portable computers will save you big bucks and help the planet. Even taking advantage of natural light instead of energy-sucking overhead lamps puts your business one step closer to energy efficiency.
Purchase Carbon Offsets
It’s nearly impossible to completely erase your company’s carbon footprint, but carbon offsets help you achieve carbon neutrality. Investing in carbon organizations like the South Pole, Myclimate, Native Energy, and Terrapass allow your business to fund projects supporting the environment. When searching for a potential investment, be sure to research third-party certifications and dig into project details.
Final Thoughts
There is no one path to sustainability, and making minor adaptations puts your business one step toward climate consciousness. By investing in green products and upgrades, working with carbon offset companies, and recycling e-waste, you’ll save money and the planet simultaneously.
