Tips for a Green Business

Kermit the Frog, that inimitable felt philosopher, famously declared “it ain’t easy being green.” Environmentally conscious small business owners know this to be true. Where do I start? Can making my business eco-friendly truly save me money in the long run? Am I actually making a difference with these changes? Here are some tips to get you started:

Manage Waste Digitally

Adopting a primarily computer-based system for your business saves large quantities of paper and other supplies you would normally dispose of regularly. Email documents to your employees instead of printing out hard copies. Implement a direct deposit payroll system if you don’t already have one. After a few months, look back on your expenses and see how much you saved. You might be surprised!

Eliminate Transportation Costs

Do you ship your supplies from far-away locations? If so, look for supply companies closer to you. This will lower your shipping charges, eliminate long-distance fuel emissions and provide a boost to your local economy. Also, make sure any company cars used are up keeping up with emission standards and always consider mileage and fuel efficiency when purchasing vehicles.

Join a Clean Energy Network

Energy Star offers a variety of free programs to help public and private organizations and businesses develop their energy efficiency. Visit their website to apply for a partnership. Small business working with Energy Star can learn valuable tips as well as have acess to technical service and local resources for their “green efforts.”

Incentives for Energy Efficient Products

Vouchers or discounts for energy-efficient products are offered by many energy companies including PECO. Products can range from compact fluorescent light bulbs to heating-ventilation-air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Visit your local energy company’s website to see if they have promotional offers for these eco-friendly products.

Sources:

MSNBC. Even Small Businesses Get into the Green Act. April 2007

USA Today. Small businesses take big steps into green act. December 2007

Bloomberg Business Week. Why Going Green Matters; 2011