The idea of setting up a green business is not new.
In the 20th century, Ford Motor Company shipped vehicles in crates upcycled as floorboards at the factory destination. It introduced soy foam seats as an eco-friendly innovation. The reusable Styrofoam is part of its sustainable strategy to achieve zero landfill.
In the land of K-Pop and Korean dramas, stereo components use rice husk as non-toxic packaging materials recycled into bricks.
The agricultural sector introduced organic produce that is untouched and unmarred by toxic farm chemicals. In gold mining, simple cornstarch is used instead of cyanide to extract gold from the raw materials.
What is a Green Business and Why Does it Matterw?
A sustainable business, otherwise known as a green business, implements environment-friendly strategies to ensure that all business processes address environmental concerns while maintaining a profit. It balances a three-legged stool of people, profit, and planet Earth to achieve its corporate mission and vision. A sustainable business maintains an equilibrium between economic prosperity and environmental quality.
What sets a business apart from its competitors? What makes it a cut above the rest? The demand for sustainable products and services is high. Aside from product experience, consumers put a hefty premium on eco-friendly brands. They care about what a company stands for.
A sustainable business creates value for employees, investors, and the environment. It has a chance to penetrate new markets or reach out to new customer groups who are willing to pay an extra dollar to save the environment.
How to be proactive in green business
The most effective way to go green is to encourage your employees to be proactive. Employers may not realize it, but most employees want climate-positive action from companies. Leading the way is the key to sustainable business. Here’s how they can deliver:
8 Proactive Ways Businesses Can Go Green
1. Maximize technology.
There is countless office software in the market to address each phase of the business operation. Your software vendor can customize the program for your business requirements. You may also encourage electronic correspondence and utilize the mobile application for group communication. The idea is to go 100% paperless.
2. Use post-consumer waste paper.
If rooting for 100% paperless is next to impossible, use post-consumer waste paper (PCW) for your printing needs. It comes from waste thrown into the recycle bin. Look for a recycling symbol when you buy paper supplies. Encourage your staff to use scrap paper when necessary. Also, remind them not to contribute to tons of garbage in the landfill.
3. Use biodegradable cleaners.
Use non-toxic cleaning materials for your reception area, office cubicles, pantry, and restrooms. Moreover, harsh chemicals act as pollutants in the environment.
4. Refurbish furniture and fixtures.
You might have creative minds sitting in the office. Instead of buying brand new furniture and fixture, why not refurbish old furniture and fixtures at a lesser expense? Your staff will be glad to lend a hand in interior design and decoration.
5. Set up a hybrid workforce.
A hybrid work setup allows employees to work from home a few days a week. Besides, less frequent commuting reduces carbon footprint in the environment.
6. Carpool or bicycle.
It is prudent to save on fuel costs by carpooling or riding a bicycle to work. It also reduces gas emission that is harmful to the environment.
7. Upcycling.
As mentioned earlier, Ford Motor Company shipped vehicles in crates used as floorboards at the factory destination. The original value was upcycled into something more valuable in the form of floorboards. Similar creative ways like upscaling plastic bottles to make jelly shoes and bags are bright ideas. There might be junks in your office waiting to turn into gems.
8. Utilize clean energy sources.
One of the cleanest forms of energy comes from solar power. Moreover, using solar panels as an alternative source of electricity saves energy bills for the business.
Benefits of Going Green for the Environment
Does it pay to be green? The answer is a resounding yes. Here are some benefits business owners and managers can consider.
· Reduced energy cost
The business can save on energy costs by going green. Solar energy as a source of electricity helps reduce operational expenses. Switching to energy-efficient lighting like LED also helps reduce energy costs. Power off computers and other office equipment when not in use. These are conscious efforts to maintain sustainable business practices that improve the bottom line.
· Tax incentives
There are tax credits and rebates available for businesses that proactively go green. Check out
U.S. Department of Energy’s website Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency.
· A boost in employee morale
Employees feel good when they are empowered to be proactive in going green. If morale is high in the workforce, productivity is at its peak. In fact, the positive effect is evident in a healthy financial statement.
· Increased sales and customer loyalty
Operating a green business helps a company stand out from its competitors. In addition, sustainable practices help gain a large base of loyal customers who will most likely advertise your business by word of mouth. Hence, it is the best form of advertisement to increase sales.
Looking for High-Quality Commercial Cleaning Services for your Green Business?
Prestige Property Services specializes in commercial cleaning and janitorial services for businesses of all types. If you are a proactive green business, our friendly and well-trained staff will be more than glad to fulfill your cleaning requirements.
Contact us at 714-224-0301 or email info@prestigepropertyservices.com for inquiries.
