Going green, or being eco-friendly has become an issue that many people hold dear to their hearts. But more than that it has become a selling point. Universities and businesses are increasing their efforts to go green in an attempt to attract more students and customers. Much of these efforts are advertised in the media and talked about in the news and they include completely new buildings and irrigation systems as well as other high-tech, high-priced changes. However, helping your business go green doesn’t have to be so high-tech or high-priced.
As a small or start-up business it is important that you maintain a balance between necessary updates and budgetary concerns. If a total re-vamp isn’t in the stars for you, don’t fret because there are tons of different things you can do to go green in a smaller way.
Below are a few tips for helping your small business go green that not only save the earth, but save your business some money – an unbeatable combination. Not to mention the fact that some customers may be more inclined to buy your product or service if they know you are making efforts to go green.
Paper
Paper is an obvious start when it comes to beginning your efforts to go green. Sign up for paperless billing for your utilities and other bills. Also consider going paperless internally by encouraging employees only to print when absolutely necessary, and when you do print, using recycled paper. Less printing will mean less paper and ink costs for your business.
Power
Reducing your use of electricity will help you go green and absolutely lower your operating costs as well. First, if it isn’t in use, turn it off. During meetings make sure the other lights and computers in the office are turned off. If the computers cannot be turned off, at least turn off the monitors. Second, consider having each individual station set up a power-strip for all electronics. This will make it easy to turn everything off at the end of the day. Lastly, unplug any appliance that is not being used – a small amount of energy is used just by being plugged-in, and that little bit adds up! Having a surge protector will help with that, too.
Lighting
Turn lights off when they are not being used, attempt to utilize natural light whenever possible, and purchase energy-efficient, eco-friendly light bulbs. These bulbs cost more in the beginning, but they cut down on the costs associated with the electric bill.
Energy Audit
It may be a good idea to see if your electric utility provider offers free energy audits. If not, here is a website where you can learn how to conduct a do-it-yourself energy audit. This will help you isolate the ways that you are using the most energy and where to focus your attention in terms of making changes.
Ink
Going paperless, of course, would be the best way to cut costs and use of resources associated with ink. However, if this doesn’t work for your company, then there are still things you can do. First, recycle your ink cartridges. Walgreens also offers a refill service where for a small price they will refill your empty ink cartridge. Next, download Eco-font, here. This allows you to use 25% less toner.
Re-usable bags
Re-usable bags are popping up in grocery and retail stores all across the nation. We suggest purchasing them in bulk with your brand and logo on them for your employees as well as for your customers, perhaps as purchasing incentives. They are very reasonably priced when you buy in bulk. This will serve as advertising when these bags are re-used in public places, it helps you act in a more sustainable fashion, and you can pay it forward by promoting the idea of going green.
Telecommuting
For many businesses, particularly those that offer services, this may not work, but telecommuting is another way to reduce the use of resources and cut costs in your office. If it doesn’t affect the operation of your business, offering times that employees can work from home can make a big difference.
About Brittany Elizabeth
