Having a genuine focus on sustainability within your business is no longer just a “nice-to-have”, it is now a must-have for future-proofing your business and the planet. One of the biggest challenges for making your business more sustainable is firstly, being able to understand the benefits of sustainability. Being a sustainable business will have a positive reaction from customers and potential customers and how this inevitably impacts your bottom line, brand value, and your competitive advantage. If you are an entrepreneur or small business owner, here’s a look at three simple ways to become a more sustainable business…
How Do I Create A More Sustainable Business?
Educate Your Team
If your team work in a traditional office environment then educating the them on the importance of sustainability is key. Take time to explain the importance of proper recycling procedures. Whether you’re already a sustainable business that’s working on improving or you’re wanting to bring your business up to scratch, it’s imperative to get your employees on board. As a small business owner wanting to educate on the importance of sustainable business practices, it’s crucial to convey how sustainability is part of your business’s core mission. Outline how and why each employee is responsible for proper recycling and ask them to be responsible for making their departments more sustainable.
Switch To Waste-Free IT
Switching to cloud computing means that your data is stored in the cloud and reduces your need for IT bulky equipment that will become quickly outdated and need replacing. Cloud computing enables users can access software and applications over the Internet. It is based on the principle that the main use, whether it is document storage, cloud payroll, workflow management, or whatever else is done remotely. It also frees up the memory and computing power of individual computers. Cloud storage services provide standard security for their systems and the data they handle, such as authentication, access control, and encryption. By using cloud computing, you don’t have to spend vast amounts of money on purchasing and maintaining equipment. You don’t have to invest in hardware and equipment that will become outdated and ultimately end up in landfills. With that being said though if you do have existing equipment such as computers, mobile phones, or printers that you want to recycle you could try contacting a company such as Premier Surplus who specializes in e-waste recycling as they will be able to dispose of your old equipment in a sustainable manner.
Introduce Remote- Working
Introducing remote-working could reduce your companies carbon footprint significantly. Transport emissions account for 21% of the UK’s carbon footprint, and every day, employees spend 4.6 million hours commuting. One study found that 98% of a person’s carbon emissions incurred at work were down to their commute; what’s more, because of the rigidity of standard working hours, commuters are often stuck in traffic jams accounting for millions of tons of wasted greenhouse gases. Introducing one day of remote-working could positively impact your companies effect on Climate Change, imagine if all businesses adopted this policy- this could result in a huge impact!
These are just three simple things to consider when making your business more sustainable. You might also find the following post beneficial…
Stay fabulous
Christine
