A study by Sendle found that 64% of people are more likely to buy from sustainable companies that offer compostable packaging, especially if it doesn't cost more.
This is just one example of how
sustainable practices can benefit your small business. By making a few simple
changes, you can help reduce your environmental impact and improve your bottom
line.
Here are tips for creating a more
sustainable small business:
1.
Invest in a Paperless Office
One of the best ways of growing an
eco-friendly business is to go paperless. This approach can save you money on
office supplies and help you avoid the waste associated with printing
documents. Some software programs and apps can help you go paperless, including
Scanner Pro (iOS) and CamScanner (Android).
Cloud storage also allows you to
access your files from anywhere, at any time. You can use Google Drive or
iCloud for this purpose.
If you're not ready to go completely
paperless, try reducing the amount of paper you use. Use both sides of each
sheet of paper, print double-sided documents whenever possible, and recycle old
newspapers and magazines.
2.
Use Recycled Paper
If you have to use paper, use
recycled paper. Not only is it better for the environment, but it also costs
less than virgin paper. You can find recycled paper at most office supply
stores.
You can also purchase sustainable
office supplies made from recycled materials. Some examples include pencils
made from bamboo, notebooks made from post-consumer waste, and pens made from
biodegradable plastic.
If you're ordering office supplies,
make sustainable choices. Opt for sustainable products made from recycled
materials and recyclable packaging whenever possible.
3.
Switch to LED Lighting
Switching to LED lighting is a great
way to reduce your small business's energy consumption. LED bulbs use up to 90%
less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer.
You can find LED light bulbs at most
home improvement stores. They come in various shapes and sizes, so you can find
one that fits your needs.
If you're not ready to switch all of
your lights over to LEDs, start with the ones used the most. Replace desk
lamps, overhead lights, and exit signs with LEDs. You'll see an immediate
reduction in your energy bill.
4.
Use a Green Energy Provider
Another way to create a green
business is to use a green energy provider. A green energy provider generates
electricity from sustainable sources, such as solar and wind power.
This approach not only helps the environment
but can also save you money on your energy bill. Many green energy providers
offer plans that are cheaper than traditional providers.
You can find a list of green energy
providers in your area by visiting the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website.
If you're not ready to switch to a
green energy provider, try using energy-saving devices. Energy-saving devices,
such as power strips and smart plugs, help you reduce the amount of energy your
electronics use.
You can find a list of energy-saving
devices on the website of the Department of Energy.
You can also consider practices like
unplugging electronics when they're not in use, turning off lights before you
leave the room, and using a laptop instead of a desktop computer.
5.
Use a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is a great way to
reduce your small business's energy consumption. A smart thermostat can save
you up to 15%
on your energy bill, and many models are compatible with voice-activated
assistants like Amazon Echo and Google Home.
If you're not ready to buy a new
smart thermostat, try using a programmable thermostat instead. Programmable
thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the
day. This helps you use less energy when you're not at home or asleep.
6.
Use Green Cleaning Products
Using green cleaning products can
reduce your small business's waste and help you save money on your utility
bills.
Green cleaners are free of harsh
chemicals, making them better for the environment, but they often cost more
than traditional cleaners. Try using eco-friendly alternatives instead, like
vinegar or baking soda mixed with water. It is a great way to clean hard
surfaces throughout your office space without putting harmful chemicals in the
air.
If you're not sure which green
cleaners to use, try looking for products that are certified by the Green Seal.
The Green Seal is a nonprofit organization that certifies sustainable products.
You can also make your own green
cleaning products using simple ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. This
way, you'll save money and help the environment.
7.
Use PCR Packaging
Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) packaging
is made from recycled materials that have been used and discarded by consumers.
This type of packaging can be found
in various products, including paperboard boxes, plastic bottles, and aluminum
cans.
Using PCR packaging helps reduce the
amount of waste your small business produces and keeps valuable resources out
of landfills.
You can see examples of recyclable
lids by checking out this packaging.
8.
Recycle Electronic Waste
Recycling electronic waste is a
great way to reduce the amount of pollution your small business produces.
Electronic waste, or e-waste, is
made up of electronics that consumers have discarded. They include things like
desktop computers, laptops, phones, and tablets.
You can recycle e-waste into new
products, but most of it ends up in landfills. This creates environmental
problems like air and water pollution.
You can recycle your e-waste by
taking it to a recycling center or using a recycler that picks up your devices
from your office. You can find a list of recyclers in your area on the website
of the Electronics TakeBack Coalition.
You can also recycle your e-waste by
donating it to a nonprofit organization. It is a great way to help out a good
cause and reduce the amount of waste your small business produces.
Top
Sustainable Small Business Ideas
Sustainability is important for any
company, but especially small businesses. Not only does sustainable living help
the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run.
The above tips are a few easy ways
to make your small business more sustainable. Try implementing these ideas, and
see how you and your company can benefit.
We hope you enjoyed this article! If you're looking for more sustainable small business tips, be sure to check out our other blog posts.
