Green Guide for New Businesses

Energy Efficiency

• One of the most important components of operating a green business is to look at energy efficiency and reduce energy waste. Companies that analyze their energy consumption often find that simple changes save money on air conditioning, heating and electricity. A good example is lighting. Warehouses that install motion-detecting lights instead of keeping all lights on in the building can save hundreds of dollars a month. For offices, using desktop lighting versus overhead lights allows employees to switch on and off the lights they need to perform their jobs. Regulating temperatures in the office and shutting down electronics at the end of the day also will reduce energy use.

Recycling

• Starting a recycling program is an easy way to incorporate green principles into your business. Be sure recycling bins are prominently displayed in areas where employees are likely to throw things away, such as in break rooms, by printers and fax machines and near vending machines. Recycling companies typically charge a certain rate based on the amount you are recycling, so the more you recycle, the more affordable the program will be. Encourage employees to reuse office supplies such as binders, folders and envelopes.

Eliminate Waste

• Thanks to the vast improvements in technology in recent years, it's easy to reduce waste from your business. From online document storage to e-mail information sharing among employees, much of the paper waste that was generated by businesses in the past can be eliminated. Also try setting printers to print double-sided as a default option, and encourage employees to use the back side of paper for notes. Suggest that employees use glasses and mugs versus paper and plastic cups, and reuse plastic bags when possible.

Go Virtual

• Depending on the type of business you have, allowing employees to telecommute can create substantial savings for your business. Holding web seminars and conference calls allows employees to collaborate without having to be physically present in the office. Additionally, allowing employees to work from home helps them save gas, further reducing your company's impact on the environment. If allowing telecommuting is not an option, consider lengthening your workday and closing one day a week. For example, having employees work four 10-hour days versus five days a week at eight hours per day will allow you to close your business one additional day each week and save energy costs.