Small business owners are becoming increasingly ethical – and this is a good thing. We’re taking steps to make sure our companies have a positive impact on the world, or, at least, that they don’t have a detrimental impact on the world they’re operating in. One way that you can improve your company is to make it as eco-friendly as possible. We’re living in a time where many major corporations are drastically damaging the environment and spurring on climate change at an unnatural pace. So, what can you do to make sure your business is as green as can be? Here are a few steps you might want to consider.
Reduce Your Paper Consumption
A huge first step you can make is to reduce your business’ paper consumption. The average small business will get through a lot of paper on a day to day basis. Some may be necessary, but many uses of paper can be switched to a digital means of doing things. Send an email instead of a letter. Store files digitally rather than physically. A lot of these alternatives means of doing things are actually more secure and more convenient than using paper documents anyway! For any paper that is used and then no longer needed? Make sure to recycle it!
Use Green Materials and Components
If your products require components or materials that are environmentally damaging, look for alternatives that are better. If your business uses parylene dimers, choose a parylene dimer that is non-toxic. Small and simple steps like this can make all the difference.
Try Green Energy
A huge number of small businesses – in fact, the majority of small businesses – rely on fossil fuels to operate. However, fossil fuels are not the only option when it comes to running your company. There are alternatives out there. So, look into green energy. Sure, it might be a little more expensive. But it’s worth it to know you’re doing good in the world. Alternatively, you could even generate energy yourself by investing in solar panels for your company.
Implement CSR Clauses Into Your Contracts
If you collaborate with other businesses, why not incorporate some CSR clauses into your contracts with them. CSR stands for corporate social responsibility. The clauses can make sure that the other company operates in a green way while they’re working with you or in projects they’re working with you on. Not only does this help the environment, but it helps you and your products to maintain a green identity and brand too.
These, of course, are just a few steps you might want to consider. There are plenty more out there! So, start out with those outlined above and then move on to doing even more. There’s no limit to the amount of good your business can do, so pursue it!
