It Makes Sense To Make Your Business Greener

Monday, February 13, 2012
Business owners who want to do their part to help protect the environment have a wide range of options available to them. As an added bonus, many of these strategies can help to reduce the costs of running a business by cutting down on energy consumption and reducing electricity or heating bills.

Energy Efficiency

Energy generation is a major source of carbon emissions. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can use to reduce the amount of energy your business uses. Most businesses use electricity for three main purposes: heating or cooling, lighting and running appliances such as computers or cash registers.

To reduce the amount of energy your business uses on heating, make sure that your thermostat is set to a comfortable but not excessive temperature, somewhere between 18 and 21 degrees C. Good insulation helps to preserve heat; check that your insulation is up to date and that you have double-glazed windows.

Lighting is another major source of energy consumption. To reduce the amount of energy our business uses on lighting, replace your existing lightbulbs with energy-efficient bulbs. Although energy-efficient bulbs cost more than regular bulbs, they last longer and use much less electricity, making them cheaper over the long term. In addition, make sure that employees turn off lights when not in use.

Appliances such as computers and cash registers consume large amounts of electricity, even when not in use. Make sure to turn off computer monitors when they are not in use, and to shut down computers at the end of the working day. Other appliances, such as televisions and stereos, are using electricity even when in 'standby' mode, so turn them off at the wall when they are not in use.

These simple steps can help reduce the level of carbon emissions produced by your business, with the added benefit that they will also save money on electricity bills.

Reducing Waste

In addition to cutting down on energy usage, you can help the environment by reducing the amount of waste your business generates. Check what items can be recycled in your area and make sure to separate recyclables from other types of rubbish. Try to buy recycled products such as office paper or wrapping products. In particular, cut down on your use of non-biodegradable packing materials such as polystyrene foam. Biodegradable and recycled options for these types of materials are available. Avoid buying products which have excess packaging wherever possible.

By following these simple steps, you can reduce the impact your business has on the environment, both in terms of atmospheric pollution and waste generation. By making your business greener, you can benefit the environment and save money on business electricty prices at the same time!

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