With climate change and damage to the environment at a critical stage and constantly covered by the media, now is the time for businesses to take action to reduce their carbon footprint and become more sustainable. Businesses in all industries can use a tremendous amount of energy each month and, in addition to environmental damage, this can also cost them a fortune.
Here are a few ways that a business can make their office more environmentally friendly – this could have a big impact in the long run and also improve brand reputation.
Increase Recycling
Most businesses generate a huge amount of waste, but often you will find that there are better and more sustainable options. Make sure that there are clearly labelled recycling bins in easy to reach spaces of the office and reduce waste by using refillable ink cartridges and encourage employees to print on both sides. Also, ban plastic cups, cutlery and plates to cut down on waste.
Energy
Electricity and heating are crucial to all businesses, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce the amount of energy used each month. These include switching to reusable energy (which can also reduce bills), but if this is an unrealistic option you can switch off lights and equipment when not in use, use energy-saving mode on computers and reduce the brightness. In terms of heating, identify areas which do not need to be heated and only turn on the heating when needed.
Procurement
Businesses must also consider where the products that they use have come from and how they have been made. If a product has had to travel from far away and has packaging which can’t be recycled, then it is important to switch to a more eco-friendly supplier which will not leave a large carbon footprint to reach the office. Always check the environmental policy of your suppliers as this can make a huge difference to your operation.
Office Culture
It is also important to introduce an eco-conscious office culture to encourage employees to think about how they can make positive changes. You can do this by updating staff on new policies, holding regular meetings, introducing cycle to work schemes and by placing posters around the office.
Advisory Services
Specialists provide sustainability advisory services where they can offer support on a range of sustainability matters to help a company to fight against climate change. This could include regulatory advice, energy reviews and cost-saving programmes, managing environmental risks and identifying key opportunities. This could transform the office and ensure that your business is doing its part in a time where being eco-friendly is vital.
Environmental damage and climate change have been huge topics in recent times and it is evident that now is the time for businesses (and individuals) to make positive changes. Companies can make their offices more sustainable and eco-friendly with the above advice, all of which can have a huge impact on a business’s carbon footprint. You may consult from experts who have a wide range of experience in conducting retro commissioning service. In addition to this, it could also save the company money on energy bills whilst boosting reputation too.
