As a business owner, you should be wary of your company’s impact on the environment. Implementing programs to increase recycling, reduce energy usage, and encourage employees and customers to make green choices will ensure your operations aren’t creating needless waste. These tactics can also support your brand and establish a positive reputation in the community. Making the following changes will help you run a business that cares about the planet.

How to Be More Environmentally Friendly  

1. Reduce Paper Usage

An increasing number of businesses are going entirely paperless to reduce waste. Start by encouraging employees to use as little paper as possible, and promote the use of recycling bins rather than trash cans for unwanted scraps. Implement electronic document storage and organization processes, switch to electronic billing and invoicing if possible, and opt for recycled products when you can. 

2. Start a Recycling Program

Paper isn’t the only waste that can be recycled in your office. Set up an office-wide program so that employees can easily keep waste out of landfills.

Aluminum cans, plastic bottles, glass, and printer and toner cartridges are just some of the items that can be recycled. To encourage participation, set up a friendly competition between departments to see who can recycle the most each month. 

3. Reduce Energy Usage

Making your business more energy-efficient will not only reduce your carbon footprint, but it will also cut operating expenses. Schedule an energy audit to identify how you can increase efficiency, such as replacing lightbulbs, improving insulation, or sealing leaks that are driving up heating and cooling costs. If your break room’s refrigerator or dishwasher breaks down, choose an energy-efficient model to replace it.

Reach out to Niederhaus Refuse to help you establish an office recycling program. Based in Lincoln, NE, this family-owned and -operated company has helped homes and businesses manage their waste since 1921. Visit their website to learn more about their waste pickup and recycling services, or call (402) 475-8361 to discuss your needs with a helpful representative.