No matter how big or small, businesses need to adopt sustainable practices in order to reduce their environmental footprint, stand out from competitors and increase positive brand association.
Although it may seem overwhelming at first, there are simple steps companies can take in order to make a difference. Below, find different ways to create a more sustainable future for your business from community partnerships to ditching single-use plastic for good.
Switch to green energy
Switching to renewable energy will not only reduce your environmental impact but will also enable long-term cost savings.
Solar panels are a great way to achieve cheap electricity and it’s an opportunity to take advantage of government renewable energy incentives, as rebates based on small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) or revenue from Large-scale Generation Certificates (LGCs) can help with the cost of installation.
Using renewable power will also indicate to clients that you are a responsible business that is dedicated to offering a sustainable product or service. If you want to keep your solar system running efficiently, regular solar servicing and maintenance is important.
Create a plan of action
It’s important to set specific goals in order to secure a sustainable future. Although it may seem overwhelming at first, you are simply looking for actionable ways to reduce, borrow and reuse the resources that your company requires.
The ultimate goal is to limit the environmental footprint caused by your company’s long-term products and services. Share this plan of action with your employees so that everyone is aware of the role they have in helping to achieve the business’ targets.
Rethink your supply chain
See where you can make changes in your supply chain. If possible, source products from suppliers which use recycled or renewable materials and sustainable production methods.
If you provide a product then it’s also crucial that you reassess your packaging methods. If you have the means, trade plastic for biodegradable bubble wrap and use recycled cardboard where possible. Not only will this ensure a more sustainable future for the business but you will show clients that you are a responsible organisation – another factor that will ensure you stand out against competitors.
Although an expensive process, an increasing number of people are willing to spend more money on sustainable products and packaging so this is a great investment.
Ditch single-use plastic
Cutting back on single-use plastic in the workplace is challenging but there are plenty of small changes you can make in order to create a more sustainable future.
Company coffee machines are responsible for a large number of throwaway pods going into the bin. A more environmentally-friendly choice would be a traditional device that uses a washable filter. If you sell products in disposable packaging or plastic bags, see if you can replace these with recyclable or reusable materials.
Don’t stop there. If you have a kitchen, replace disposable utensils with reusable mugs and dinnerware. In the bathrooms, swap hand towels for dryers.
Choose the right waste management services
Since we are on the topic of reducing the environmental footprint of businesses for a more sustainable future, we should also be keen on choosing our waste management service providers. With the current crisis in waste management, choosing the right waste management services can be hard. Businesses nowadays need to have waste management services with an approach that is environmental friendly as well.
In choosing your waste management company, make sure that they provide a wide range of services. If you’re going to use them for the long term, they have to adapt to the ever-changing needs of your businesses so make sure they have a diverse set of services that you can rely on now and in the days to come.
Also, with the current situation of waste management, you should find a company that think and adapt to new ways of collecting, disposing or recycling waste. Choose a waste management services that can demonstrate a commitment to their ethical and environmental responsibilities.
Lastly, choose a waste management company that caters to different kinds of businesses including SMEs and provides flexible rates. These waste management companies can provide customised waste management plans to different kinds of businesses and also provide flexible pay rates. Furthermore, this crisis on waste management can make waste management prices shoot up so choosing a company that can still offer flexible rates is vital. This way, you will be able to boost your waste management and recycling rate and save money at the same time.
Turn off electrical goods
Make sure to turn off electrical devices when not in use such as lights, computers, printers, and air conditioners. In order to prevent ‘phantom power‘, whereby energy drains even if the device is turned off, make sure to unplug goods completely if possible.
Ask employees to put their computers into hibernation mode when they are not in the office in order to reduce energy output.
Keep learning
With the threat of a more environmentally conscious generation emerging, you need to ensure that your business stays up to date with the latest trends in the world of sustainability.
Seek advice from the experts whether that’s a local environmental organisation, fellow business, or through government resources.
Build partnerships with the local community
The future of your business relies on the local community so consider teaming up with a local environmental organisation. Your company could donate old electrical goods to the organisation or could even host fundraising events to raise money and awareness.
Participating in community projects will not only educate your employees but will also show the local area that you are an eco-conscious company which in turn, will help to attract new clientele.
Showcase your efforts
Be transparent about your company’s progress towards a more sustainable future. Stakeholders, clients, and potential investors are more likely to value a company that respects the environment and takes responsibility for its actions.
Don’t be afraid to showcase your achievements on your website, social media channels, and in presentations as these are great ways to increase positive brand association. In the long run, this will also help you to earn new clients and boost sales.
By adopting a few of these small changes, your business will carve a more sustainable future that will not only benefit the environment but the lives of the community and your employees.
