Going green is not only good for the planet – even if climate change doesn’t exist, hey Donald – but it is also a great way to help you stand out and differentiate your business in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
Nowadays, it’s not only eco-businesses that are doing their bit for the planet; startups across a wide range of sectors are recognising just how important this issue is, not only to their customers but also to their employees. And the good news is it doesn’t need to cost you a penny to protect Mother Nature. In fact, going green can actually help you save money.
So what initiatives can you put in place to reduce the impact of your startup on the planet? Here are a few small changes every business can make...
1. Power your business with alternative energy
Is your business in the Green Power Network? If it is, you can sign up to purchase ‘green power’ from your current utility provider. This is generated from renewable sources such as hydropower, geothermal power, solar power and even decaying plant matter. I know we said going green wouldn’t cost you, but purchasing renewable energy will add a small percentage to the cost of your energy bill. However, the boost to your green credentials will be huge and you’ll be able to sleep soundly at night knowing your startup is doing its bit.
2. Stick to post-consumer waste paper products
If going paperless is a step too far, make sure you use post-consumer waste paper products, which is paper produced entirely out of the paper placed in recycling bins every single day. Many well-intentioned businesses look for a recycling symbol on the paper they use and think they are doing their bit, but this is an unregulated designation so it’s difficult to know exactly what it means. Post-consumer waste paper uses 45 percent less energy and creates half the waste of the traditional papermaking process. You should also consider using the services of business e-card providers to reduce your carbon footprint.
3. Give biodegradable cleaning products a try
Cleaning products are just cleaning products, right? So why would you use harsh substances that are full of chemicals when you could use biodegradable products that not only limit your exposure to toxins but also reduce the introduction of these substances into the environment? The perception is that green cleaning products will cost you more but many stores sell in bulk to help you keep the costs down.
4. Use a bright lighting solution
Any bright business idea should be accompanied by the right lighting solution. Compact-fluorescent (CFL) and LED lights use significantly less energy than standard incandescent bulbs. That means they are not only better for the environment but they also last longer, helping to bring the cost of your lighting down. Don’t be put off by the higher initial purchase price of eco-friendly bulbs. Over their lifespan, they will more than pay you back!
5. Turn your web hosting green
Green web hosts are becoming more commonplace with many offering an excellent hosting package level at similar or even lower prices than some of the biggest names in this space. Most green hosts are powered entirely by renewable energy to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. Many also run other initiatives such as planting trees, paperless systems and energy efficient servers.
Think about green initiatives now and this eco-friendly approach will grow with your company, reducing your environmental impact and creating the type of business people want to be a part of.
