Simplest Ways You Could Do To Help Reduce Carbon Footprint

CO2 reduction efforts can help change how we approach sustainability. However, the need for bigger, more advanced strategies makes it harder for smaller companies to maximize their eco-friendly processes. Regardless, there are many ways that companies can contribute. Helping the environment does not mean burning off all your funding. There are several simple ways companies can help cut down their carbon footprint. Here are 8 quick ways that you can do to do your part in saving the environment.

Reduce Packaging Waste

Switching to more environmentally friendly packaging can help reduce the amount of waste that a company produces. This includes choosing reusable containers as opposed to traditional plastic ones. Companies can also look for recyclable materials. 

One of the easiest ways to do this is by packing less and emphasizing reusable containers. Sometimes, simply reducing the amount of plastic you use can make a big difference in how much your company contributes to the landfill. On a company level, utilizing more paper packaging can help you take advantage of easy-to dispose of and recycle materials. In your warehousing, it’s also best to maximize packaging boxes and recycled cardboard to save money. You can also reduce packaging waste with alternative solutions available out there.

Recycle, Recycle, Recycle

When it comes to Recycling can not only help save natural resources but also save you money. One way to cut down on recycling costs is by separating your waste materials. By organizing your office’s trash by type, you can reduce the garbage you have to throw away. You can also save on shipping by reusing and recycling your boxes. Additionally, you can reduce the amount and size of your recycling bins. For example, you can use your stationery and cardboard boxes to pack your recyclables instead of purchasing new, smaller bins. The recycling process is simple. To maximize space, you can sort your recyclables into various bins. Most cities now offer curbside pickup for items like plastic bottles and aluminum cans. Paper, glass, and metals can be dropped off at local businesses, like schools or churches. You can contact your local waste management company or city for larger items and implement a commercial drop-off system. You can schedule a pick-up for large or bulky items that can’t fit in your garbage. 

Partner With Sustainable Suppliers

To ensure the longevity of your business, you must work with suppliers that supply sustainable products. When finding business partners and OEM vendors, consider using companies that practice responsible supply chain management and more efficient shipping routes. By partnering with environmentally-conscious vendors, you can save money on your monthly bill. You can research your vendor's policies, pricing, and rebate programs to see if they are a good fit for your business. To minimize your impact on the environment, you can also adopt a green procurement policy. Go through their websites, ask around, and research the brands they use. Once you have a list of potential providers, you can research them. Find out if they meet specific standards that benefit the environment and your business.

Conserve Water

Businesses can use several resources to conserve water. Many modern dishwashers use gallons and gallons of water per cycle. By purchasing energy-efficient models, you can reduce your water usage dramatically. You can help reduce the strain on municipal water usage by conserving water. To save on energy costs, you can install low-flow faucets and adjust the water temperature to 60°F or lower to save on energy costs. You can also switch your toilet to an ultra-low flush model and use dual flushing toilets to reduce your water consumption rate. 

Use Energy-Efficient Lighting

Going Green by switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the best ways for small companies to reduce the company’s overall environmental footprint. For every 100-watt incandescent bulb, you replace with an 18-watt CFL, you save hundreds of dollars on your electric bill. Using more LEDs or other energy-saving technologies can save you even more on your electricity bill. LEDs are 40% more efficient than conventional bulbs, and they last up to 40,000 hours, saving you money and time on replacements. They are mercury-free, too, making them safer for the environment. You can use both indoor and outdoor LED lighting, helping you create a greener workplace.

Go Paperless

Today, going paperless means more than just putting away your paper in the filing cabinet. To indeed go “green,” you’ll need to change how you manage your documents. Your company can implement a sustainable document management system that automatically scans all incoming paperwork and routes it to the appropriate department. This system will also eliminate the need for printed reports, which will cut down on printing and mailing your expenses and help your workers save time. You can switch to digital files to cut back on paper and printer ink. Electronic files from your daily operations, such as accounting, inventory, and shipping, can be scanned and filed digitally. By eliminating these files, you can ensure a safer, cleaner work environment and reduce the amount of energy used. 

Switch To Renewable Energy Sources

If your goal is to go beyond minimum sustainability, you may want to consider using renewable energy sources, such as solar power.  In today’s business world, renewable energy sources are everywhere. From major corporations to small offices, businesses take advantage of the sun, wind, and Earth’s natural minerals to power their operations. If your business uses large amounts of electricity, investing in renewable energy sources is easy to lower your bills. You can check with your local utility provider to see if you qualify for solar panels or other systems rebates. You also have the option of installing your own solar array. Solar panel installation requires only a small investment, and it can help offset your utility bills. 

Take Advantage of Remote Work and Telecommuting

Many companies embrace remote work, making it possible for employees to work from almost anywhere on Earth.  By implementing telecommuting, companies can increase their productivity, reduce their environmental impact, and save time and money. By reducing building occupancy, you can prevent wasted energy, air emissions, and carbon emissions. You can eliminate commuting expenses, and your employees can work in a healthier, more productive environment. This cost-saving technique allows you to work from home and eliminates the need for fuel, transportation, and office space. You can hire remote employees or enable existing staff to telecommute from home to save energy, time, and money. By allowing your staff to work independently, you can boost productivity and save your employees’ commute time and gasoline.

The Bottom Line

There are many ways that small businesses can incorporate more sustainable business practices into their operations. Small changes can be easy to implement, but they’ll go a long way in reducing your impact. Implementing a few simple changes in your business practices can significantly impact the environment. By optimizing your office's environmental and sustainability practices, you can decrease expenses and guarantee long-term growth. 

If you’re looking to help save the environment, Biotuff provides sustainable products that reduce your carbon footprint. From bin liners to nappy bags, we have something for you. Talk to us today and find out how you can easily cut down your impact on the environment today.