Despite decades of debate, it seems most scientists today agree that we now lie on the cusp of doing our planet irreparable damage through our continued mistreatment of its natural resources. From global pollution and deforestation to the decimation of thousands of species over the years, we are the first generation of humans that are physically changing the Earth.
While it’s undoubtedly true that we as citizens have our part to play in cutting down emissions and looking after our home planet better, businesses, too, have responsibilities. Indeed, it’s commonly suggested if firms were to take a more proactive approach to their green credentials, it would have a massive effect – particularly on harmful emissions.
Steps your firm could take to join the global green revolution and stop a climate catastrophe
While most people are pretty well aware of the simpler things we can do to reduce our personal carbon footprint (use the car less, recycle more, etc.), it’s often not so obvious when it comes to trying to work out how to reduce a firm’s damage to the environment.
If you’re looking for ways to make your company greener and reduce the impact of climate change, below are just a few ideas you could implement today that could make a significant difference tomorrow. Remember, taken singularly, these acts might seem small, but when done collectively among many firms, they could completely transform our fortunes and help avert an impending climate catastrophe.
Ensure your firm uses green-certified cleaning products
One of the least obvious changes you could make is to ensure that your company only uses green, non-toxic cleaning products. While these products are sometimes slightly more expensive, they will help you inadvertently cause damage to the environment (and possibly to you or your staff). In many cases, the chemicals used in cleaning products can have a lasting impact so try to choose less harmful substances.
Suggest carpooling or riding bikes to work
Carpooling isn’t just good for the environment – it will also save your company from having to give over space for car parks and also helps reduce congestion on the roads. Depending on where your premises is located and where your staff lives, carpooling can mean just a small deviation from their usual route to work to pick up colleagues. If you don’t already, perhaps suggest having a once-a-week carpool ‘leave the car at home’ day to encourage more employees to share.
Another great initiative is to encourage more of your staff to cycle to work. Not only will this save on car parking space at your premises, but you’ll also help minimize congestion. Cycling will have benefits for your employees, too, eliminating the costs of commuting while also bringing considerable health benefits. And, of course – that’s not to mention they will reduce their emissions to near zero.
Most proactive cities these days are investing heavily in cycle routes – check online to see if your home town is the same.
Recycle, recycle, recycle
It should seem the most obvious thing in the world to recycle in business, but it’s surprising how few firms have a recycling policy. Depending on your type of firm and its areas of operations, you could make significant changes if you implement a company-wide policy of recycling.
Even smaller, office-based firms can make a difference by simply installing clearly-marked bins for paper, plastic, cardboard, and glass and insisting staff separate their rubbish. Indeed, in today’s climate-aware society, it’s highly likely your employees will already be au fait with the idea and will likely be recycling at home. In turn, the refuse will be taken and sorted at appropriate facilities – for example, cardboard recycling. To find out more about how these systems work, check out information about cardboard recycling equipment at recyclingbalers.com.
Look at alternative energy sources
Energy and, in particular, the production of energy is one of the biggest drains on our planet’s resources – plus one of the biggest contributors to emissions. Where possible, you should try and source an energy supplier that takes a conscious approach to its production methods and has clearly defined green credentials and goals.
Also – and again, depending on your premises and how much space you have – it may be worth looking at installing your own sources of power generation. This will also have a knock-on effect on your energy bills while helping reduce the impact you’re making on the planet.
For example, the cost of solar panels has dropped significantly over the years – and one Chinese company recently unveiled it’s now producing large flexible solar panels which can be applied to pretty much any surface or building.
Water and wind power are also possibilities depending on where you’re based and the space you have. Considering different sources of your energy could have a dramatic impact on both your outgoings and also the harm you’re doing to the environment.
Make sure you partner with green-conscious suppliers
There’s little point in you going to all the effort of encouraging a greener approach to your operations if you then use suppliers that don’t share the same ethos. Making your firm eco-friendlier means taking a top-to-bottom approach in everything you do, including checking the people and companies you work with.
Most companies these days are far more aware of their responsibilities and are becoming more proactive in how they operate. Moreover, global government initiatives are helping encourage change by offering rewards for compliance or penalties for underperformance. However, that doesn’t mean you can just assume the firms you work with are playing their part. If you’re in any doubt, you should ask.
Upgrade or replace old machinery and appliances
Energy efficiency is a relatively new concept, and you’ll likely find that any machinery or appliances you have that are more than 20 to 30 years old will be running inefficiently. Newer products have a star rating to prove their efficiency, helping you cut costs while also reducing your carbon footprint.
