Climate change has become a major concern as new evidence suggests the problem is more severe than previously thought.
For example, Canada is experiencing infernos while trapped under a heat dome that had just recently passed through the Northwestern United States.
The need for greener practices on an individual and business level has never been more urgent. Luckily, there are many ways to help the environment, and they usually don’t cost much.
So, here are three things you can do to make your office a little more environmentally friendly.
Daily Commute
While some employees remain reluctant to come back into the office, perhaps doing partial work from home is possible. Decreasing the amount of gas used during a daily commute will inevitably positively impact the environment.
However, it is the use of petroleum-based fuels that do the most harm, so encourage alternative transportation methods. If possible, give incentives like extra vacation days to persons who go green with transportation.
For example, you could give a week’s vacation or various perks to anyone who opts for an electric or hybrid car. Another example: provide an additional 30-minute break to the person who bikes into work or takes public transportation.
Embrace Technology
Technology has made life simpler and arguably more difficult. However, it can be scary letting go of the practices that had initially brought you success.
Embrace technology and allow it to take your business to greater places of efficiency. Along the way, take advantage of the greener effect it has on the business.
For example, ditching an old cataloging system for a more modern digital one is a great way to prevent paper waste. However, while it may not seem like a big change, you must keep in mind that the paper companies continue to produce paper based on its demand.
Going paperless and bringing a business into the digital age can make a big difference, plus it can boost productivity.
Reduce Plastic
There is a lot to know about recycled plastic. For example, did you know that not every piece of plastic is recyclable? After a piece of plastic gets placed into the recycle bin, it goes to a processing plant.
That plant must then sort through the pieces of plastic to see what is viable. If a piece of plastic is not viable, it is either sent to a landfill or incinerated. Both of these options are terrible for the environment.
So, perhaps support the practice of reusable containers in the office. Ditch the plastic bottles or other plastic items that get used once and thrown away.
So, Remember…
There are plenty of ways to give back to the environment, but these three ways are a good start. And while making your office greener is good for the environment, it can also be good for business.
Being environmentally friendly and conscious has proven to be a powerful factor when motivating environmentally-conscious consumers.
One of the easiest ways to make your business more sustainable is ditching disposable plastics for water and beverages at the office. A bottleless water cooler can help reduce waste and save money, while keeping your employees and guests hydrated and happy.
