subject: How To Run A Green Business [print this page] A growing number of business owners and professionals are looking at ways to integrate environment friendly business practices into their operations not only to save the planet, but also to save tons of money. It has been found that energy is of the easiest areas where a business can save tons of money and quickly. This especially holds true for manufacturing set ups. At the same time, a number of service oriented business are also opting to incorporate green practices into their business. For example, a number of Vancouver based accountants insist on softcopies of financial documents with a view to reduce paperwork. Not only does this save time and money, but it is also blessing to the environment.
While it is a bigger challenge for larger established businesses, but if you have the benefit of being a start up or a small business, implementing green systems into your day to day operations can prove to be quite profitable from a financial and social perspective.
Opting for a greener work environment also helps bring in business for a number of small set ups, since more environment friendly large companies insist that their vendors are also energy efficient.
Here are some ideas on how you can integrate green practices into your business ""
1. Lighting "" Instead of keeping the lights of your entire factory, warehouse or office on at all times, simply switching off lights in empty rooms can help you save up to 15% of your electricity bills. You can advocate this idea among employees by placing signs and boards and strategic locations to remind them to turn off the lights every time they leave the room.
Also, wherever possible, try to make the most of larger windows which bring in more natural light. Not only does this help save electricity, but natural light is known to enhance the environment and even boost productivity among employees.
2. HVAC Systems "" If your staff members are moving around office in summer wear during the winter months, or vice versa it is a clear sign that your heater or your air conditioning is very high. Turn down the thermostat instead of opening doors and windows. Make sure that there is no furniture or boxes in front of the radiators and that your systems are properly installed in appropriate locations for maximum efficacy.
3. Maintaining your Machinery "" Conduct a timely maintenance check on all your machines and equipment. Make sure your drives, fans, pumps and motors are maintained properly. Inefficient machinery can increase your energy spends, and a little investment towards maintenance can help lowering your bills and create environment friendly industrial processes.
4. Waste Management "" Implement environment friendly waste management techniques. Encourage your employees to dispose bottles, cans and paper into appropriate recycling bins. There are a number of work spaces who give away their unused cafeteria food to charity. A growing number of hospitality businesses are looking for ways to manage their waste food, linens and glassware.
5. Transport "" Make sure all your transportation is well maintained and environment friendly. Encourage employees to use public transport and provide bike parking sheds for health and environment conscious staff members.
In addition to this, make a conscious decision to make your work environment paper free and work towards making the "Green Initiative" a culture and philosophy within your organization.
