A lot of businesses worry that ‘going green’ will cost them a lot of green! After all, if you’re thinking of implementing green practices at your business, it’s natural to want to make sure they’re cost effective. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to accomplish both!
These tips can help you implement cost-effective ways to go green at your business:
Go Paperless
Consider going paperless where and whenever possible: save files digitally, send electronic copies of documents such as contracts, invoices etc. Not only will you be helping the environment, but you will be saving on office supplies, too!
Engage Employees in Green Practices
Collectively, a group of people can make a significant difference so don’t overlook the opportunity to get employees involved in your efforts. Remind employees to switch their computer settings to power-saving mode when not in use, and unplug laptops or cell phones when they are fully charged. Other small ways to go green as a group include asking employees to ensure that all their equipment, lights and air conditioners and radios are all turned off when they leave at the end of each day.
Replace Old Equipment
Replacing most of your office equipment in one go can be financially draining, especially if you are a small business. But purchasing and using highly rated pieces of office equipment can help save on your business’s energy bills. Audit your computers and printers and create a plan to update them one at a time.
Use Environmentally-Friendly Light Bulbs
This may come as a surprise, but incandescent light bulbs are a major factor that contributes to wasted energy at businesses! Switching to LED bulbs, which use up to 80% less energy and lasts up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs will not only decrease your electricity bill in the long run, but save you money on constantly replacing burnt out light bulbs.
Keep your customers informed
Promote your environmentally friendly practices on your social media platforms to keep your customers aware and updated of your commitments. As well as helping the environment, green business practices can definitely bolster your public image and potentially bring in more customers!
When it comes to businesses and the environment, it doesn’t have to be either or : By following these tips, you can prioritise green practices that make the most sense for your business and may save some money in the long run!
