We all know that the environment needs our help and protection. It can be tricky, however, to know what to do and where we can start. As a business, there are many ways you can incorporate environmentally-friendly practices and procedures that really make a difference. By doing so, you’ll not only help our earth, you will likely encourage employees and community members to adopt environmentally friendly practices too. Here are a few ideas to consider:
Find ways to cutback and conserve
As a business, there are several ways to cutback, save and conserve. Something as simple as changing all the lightbulbs in your facility to energy efficient LED models can make a big difference. Cutting back could also include asking employees to print on both sides of the paper and using only reusable dishes and cutlery in your staff break room. There have been many examples of large companies focusing on sustainability recently. McDonalds, for example, has committed to phasing out plastic straws in the near future.
Involve your employees
Involving your employees in the implementation of your ‘green’ strategy is a great idea. Ask your employees to share any feedback and ideas they may have. You may wish to consider creating a sustainability committee at your place of business and provide additional training and workshop opportunities for members so that they are able to act as sustainability leaders.
Support local whenever you can
Supporting local is an awesome practice for a whole host of reasons. Not only are you stimulating the local economy and helping your community, shopping local also means that you may be able to avoid long distance shipping, which can be environmentally taxing. Depending on the type of business you own, supporting local may also mean that your employees can shorten their commute, which is also a great environmentally friendly move.
Make it part of your policy
Finally, making sustainability a part of your company policy is another way to really solidify your efforts when it comes to environmentalism. Start by creating a list of the opportunities to go ‘greener’ at your work. Next, assemble a team to develop the plan. If you’re not sure where to start, check out this great resource focusing on building a sustainability plan for your business.
How important is sustainability when it comes to your business practices? Share your thoughts with us by posting on our social media channels or by using the hashtag #IONFS.
