In the business world today, if you’re not green, you’re not competitive. Not only should an eco-friendly business create an earth-friendly product, it must practice sustainable business practices as well.
Not sure how to get greener? The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), an environmental action organization that works to protect the planet’s wildlife and wild places and to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all living things, provides comprehensive getting-started guides. Check out some of its planet-saving business practices below, or visit its website for more information.
CUT DOWN ON PAPER
According to the NRDC, the average office tosses out about 350 pounds of paper per employee per year. To help save trees, buy paper with post-consumer recycled content, print double-sided sheets and collect used paper for recycling. In addition, stock your bathrooms with post-consumer recycled tissue products.
GET ENERGY EFFICIENT
Using less energy reduces the demand on power plants, the nation’s leading contributors to global warming pollution and mercury pollution, says the NRDC. Plus, it will help lower your energy bills. Because electronics use energy while off but plugged in, unplug them after hours—plug everything into a power strip and you’ll only have to flip one switch at the end of the day. Also, set computers to sleep when inactive and shut down screensavers, which use up electricity unnecessarily. Of course, also turn off all lights.
Your business can also save energy by using all Energy Star-labeled office equipment. The NRDC suggests contacting your utility company to arrange for a free (or inexpensive) energy audit. An engineer will examine your operations and provide you with a detailed report about how your firm can save on energy costs.
STOP WATER WASTE
In the United States, some rivers are being drawn down faster than nature can fill them up, according to the NRDC. Using water efficiently today will help ensure that future generations have access to the water they need. Install faucet aerators and low-flow toilets, check for and fix leaks, and recycle water.
FORM A GREEN TEAM
Make sure your employees are on board to ensure that your green efforts are implemented successfully. Members of your organization could bring more eco-friendly ideas to the table. Also, buy less toxic cleaning supplies to improve indoor air quality and reduce risks to employee health.
—Nielsen Business Media
