Four things your business could do to be more environmentally friendly
The environment is an essential issue for us all – as individuals, families, and businesses. We all want to make sure that we take care of our planet so there is a great future ahead for us and the next generations. We can take many steps to have a positive effect, and this can include ensuring our organizations are doing all they can in this area.
There are many places you can start when it comes to business. Small changes and substantial plans can be put in place, depending on your industry and set-up. These are just some of the ways you could do this and, even if their effect may seem minimal, all changes can be worthwhile.
Reduce your water usage
Water use is an obvious way to conserve valuable environmental resources – whether your business is in a drought-stricken area or not. Many municipalities in western North America have put in place stringent water rationing as the past decade has been one of the driest recorded in the area. In the US, drought is ranked as second among weather-related economic events.
There are several ways you can reduce water use at your business. These may include:
- Using high-efficiency pressure washers for cleaning
- Incorporating rain sensors and drip irrigation (where necessary) into a drought-tolerant landscape design
- Adding faucet aerators and low-flow toilets in washrooms
- Fixing leaks and dripping taps
Recycle your equipment
One way you can help the environment – and benefit those in need – is to keep surplus equipment out of the landfill. It has been estimated that, in 2018, 48.5 million tons of electronic waste was created.
If you are looking to replace your company’s electronic items – including monitors, computers, smartphones, tablets, and printers – these could be used by local charities or schools. Some computer manufacturers and retailers have technology recycling programs that offer credit if you trade-in your used technology, too. Just check you remove sensitive information from these devices before recycling.
This isn’t just limited to electronic equipment; similar programs are also available from recycling baler manufacturers, for instance. You can have used equipment removed swiftly and be put in touch with those who can provide you with new appliances.
Use post-consumer wastepaper products
Make sure you use eco-friendly paper if you have to print. Only PCW paper made in total from what we put in paper recycling bins and uses 45% less energy and half the waste of traditional paper-making processes. Look out for products labelled as 100% PCW, so you know that your paper makes the least impact. If that is not possible, then search for options with as high a PCW content as possible – and recycle all your paper.
Change your lights
Consider using compact fluorescent (CFL) or LED lights; they might both cost you a bit more to buy compared to incandescent bulbs but will use far less energy and will last longer. CFL and LED lights can replace what standard bulbs you have in most of your fixtures and could save up to $200 per bulb over time.
