Eco-friendly goals aren’t just for ordinary citizens, so if you operate a local business, you can get involved with environmentally-friendly ventures, too. Lead by example and make an effort to adopt more environmentally-friendly business practices so that your customers know that your organization cares about the community it serves.
Try these tips if you want your company to operate in an environmentally friendly manner.
Reuse
Using fewer plastic bags is an eco-friendly move on its own, so if your business regularly uses plastic bags, try encouraging your customers to bring their own reusable bags during their visit to your establishment.
For example, if you are a local dry cleaner, consider providing your regular customers with reusable laundry bags at no additional cost to them.
If your store sells balloons, it’s also a good idea to invest in a non-disposable helium tank and schedule regular helium gas refills with a reliable supplier.
Recycle
There are several ways businesses can be kinder to the environment, such as using equipment and supplies that are made from recycled materials. for example, manufacturers have been able to produce eco-friendly playground equipment from recycled milk jugs! Not only are they helping to save the environment, kids can be educated about eco-friendliness while playing in the playground as well.
Providing recycling services for your customers will also help get others involved with your goal. If you operate an independent neighborhood pharmacy, you might consider offering a medication disposal service so that your customers don’t carelessly flush medications down the toilet. If you operate a dry cleaning delivery service, encourage customers to return hangers for reuse.
Use Eco-Friendly Technology
Manufacturers are taking steps toward developing more environmentally-friendly machinery and various technologies, so be sure to explore the options that align with your business. For example, installing water-saving sinks and toilets in your restrooms, or switching old machinery for more efficient versions can help your business reduce expenses. You might also be interested in replacing older pieces of equipment with more energy-efficient solutions. On top of lowering your operations costs, you’ll be promoting a greener existence.
Use Clean Energy
Using clean energy sources or finding ways to reduce your organization’s energy consumption can help take eco-friendly goals to the next level. Using propane or solar energy to supplement your store’s electricity use can reduce your company’s carbon footprint. Using propane for heating, cooling, refrigeration, would be more eco-friendly than other energy sources.
Use Energy-Efficient Lighting & Equipment
Energy-saving lightbulbs and smart lighting systems can be beneficial for companies approaching green initiatives. In addition to reducing the overall energy consumption that comes with keeping your office illuminated, your building can also implement motion sensors or light timers to turn lights off in areas that will be empty during certain times of the day.
There is also a wide array of energy-saving equipment available for service industry use. If you operate a restaurant, for example, energy-efficient kitchen appliances are worth considering.
Investing in green products aims to not only reduce pollution and improve the quality of the environment around your establishment, but these measures also aim to financially benefit your company in the long run. Take the plunge and start making more environmentally-conscious decisions to establish your organization as one that’s leading your local area in the right direction.