1. Reduce waste and save money
Business waste in the UK carries a high premium. Latest research suggests it can cost as much as 4% of annual turnover. Using recycled and recyclable materials and biodegradable packaging can reduce waste costs dramatically. Specialist recyclers can be found for hazardous waste, such as batteries and chemicals. Printing on both sides of paper obviously helps to save on paper costs.
Moving to ‘digital documents’ having the agenda and notes on your computer rather than paper, not only reduces waste but also provides an easily found record of the event.
Check for leaking taps in the office kitchen and ensure the sink has a plug to use when washing up.
2. Reduce energy and save money
Switching off your computers, printers, other equipment and lights at night are easy ways to save energy but also save money. Even during the day encourage employees to turn the lights off when they leave a room, switching off computers and unplugging mobile phone chargers when not in use will all save money. Rather than using a screensaver, set your monitor to power off after the same amount of time – its easy!
Checking heating and air conditioning are not on at the same time can help and keep doors closed when either of these are in use will help their effectiveness. If rooms are empty make sure the light is turned off and possibly turn the heating off too.
3. Change your products and make money
Introducing features that promote the reusability or recycled nature of your product(s) not only helps the environment but also helps sell your product. Can you print on recycled paper? Can your business send material out via email rather than print?
4. Buy Plants and improve your environment
Plants not only make your office look nicer but they absorb airborne pollutants and negative ions from computers, whilst emitting oxygen. Plant waste like bark and leaves can also be recycled and used as garden mulch.
5. Car share
Encourage your employees to car share and/or take public transport where possible.
It is important to remember not all green initiatives will save you money or cost nothing but having a green business is not always about saving money. Ultimately you will be doing your bit to help save our planet for future generations to enjoy.
Business waste in the UK carries a high premium. Latest research suggests it can cost as much as 4% of annual turnover. Using recycled and recyclable materials and biodegradable packaging can reduce waste costs dramatically. Specialist recyclers can be found for hazardous waste, such as batteries and chemicals. Printing on both sides of paper obviously helps to save on paper costs.
Moving to ‘digital documents’ having the agenda and notes on your computer rather than paper, not only reduces waste but also provides an easily found record of the event.
Check for leaking taps in the office kitchen and ensure the sink has a plug to use when washing up.
2. Reduce energy and save money
Switching off your computers, printers, other equipment and lights at night are easy ways to save energy but also save money. Even during the day encourage employees to turn the lights off when they leave a room, switching off computers and unplugging mobile phone chargers when not in use will all save money. Rather than using a screensaver, set your monitor to power off after the same amount of time – its easy!
Checking heating and air conditioning are not on at the same time can help and keep doors closed when either of these are in use will help their effectiveness. If rooms are empty make sure the light is turned off and possibly turn the heating off too.
3. Change your products and make money
Introducing features that promote the reusability or recycled nature of your product(s) not only helps the environment but also helps sell your product. Can you print on recycled paper? Can your business send material out via email rather than print?
4. Buy Plants and improve your environment
Plants not only make your office look nicer but they absorb airborne pollutants and negative ions from computers, whilst emitting oxygen. Plant waste like bark and leaves can also be recycled and used as garden mulch.
5. Car share
Encourage your employees to car share and/or take public transport where possible.
It is important to remember not all green initiatives will save you money or cost nothing but having a green business is not always about saving money. Ultimately you will be doing your bit to help save our planet for future generations to enjoy.
No comments:
Post a Comment