Businesses Going Green

There are small steps businesses can take to reduce their impact on the environment. Small companies are diligently searching for ideas to green their business, but many fear the costs associated with this process will drive down business or prove too costly that it will drive down profits. Although the short term cost and benefit analysis may suggest that investing in green solutions is too costly, the long-term business, social and ethical benefits prove that going green is a responsible decision.

Companies can implement low-key programs that will boost employee and customer involvement. Consider organizing a recycling program in a designated area to promote responsible reduction of waste. This will also drive down the cost of waste management as recycling can reduce waste by up to 75%. Companies can also begin using recycled products instead of new products such as shipping peanuts. This can potentially reduce costs a business accrues. Schools and businesses are continually coming up with new ideas to reduce their impact on the environment.

Small business can cut energy costs by installing CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) or LED light bulbs which use less energy for lighting and have longer life spans. Replace burnt fluorescent bulbs with the energy saving counterpart to reduce long term lighting costs. Businesses may also consider changes to facility temperatures. A change of two to three degrees Fahrenheit can result in significant energy savings to a business.

Other business solutions involve higher initial costs but these costs are quickly recovered. Companies looking to purchase a company car may consider hybrid or fuel-efficient vehicles. The initial increase of cost will be offset by the savings of increasing fuel costs. Some small and medium-sized businesses benefit from installing energy efficient windows to cut down on unused energy which escapes through older windows. Solar panels are becoming a feasible option for companies who wish to cut down on heating and electricity costs.

For more information about implementing green solutions into small and medium sized businesses, please consult the following websites: