Nibletz Staff
More and more businesses around the UK are taking steps towards being more environmentally friendly. Not only does being green help save the planet, it’s often more cost-efficient and can improve a business’s reputation. Here are just some of the ways your business can go green.
Go paperless
Computers have eliminated much of the need we have today for paper. Newsletters can be e-mailed out, calendars can be shared as an app and literature can be bought online as a digital e-book. There are now even programs that allow you to sign documents electronically. Of course, other businesses will continue to send physical mail and ask you to keep onto physical documents and contracts – this cannot be helped – however, you may be able to set an example by going paperless and eventually persuade these clients/providers to do the same.
Recycle waste
Almost all forms of waste can be recycled. Using different bins for different types of waste can encourage recycling of materials such as plastic, cardboard and food waste. If you have a printer, you could start using refillable ink cartridges (although going paperless may eliminate the need for a printer at all). You may also want to take a look at liquid waste composting, which could help to manage sewerage and the recycling of greywater. And of course, any furniture or computers that you get rid of can be sold, donated or recycled for parts.
Insulate
Controlling heating within the office can be difficult, however you can still minimise your gas bill by investing in various insulation methods around the office. This could include double glazing, adding draft protectors and replacing the boiler. You should also scan the property for cracks and holes in the walls – these could be letting out unnecessary heat. An energy assessment may be able to monitor how much you are using, and how you can cut down your usage.
Use energy efficient lights
For saving electricity, installing LED lights or halogen bulbs could be a great solution. Some offices may also invest in motion-sensitive lights, particularly for outside the building and for toilets. As a result, these lights only turn on when someone is there, preventing a light from having to be on all night outside or from someone forgetting to turn the toilet light off.
Try solar power
Another way your business may be able to save money is by investing in solar panels. These are becoming constantly more affordable and are great for commercial buildings, which often have flat roofs. Plug points can be rerouted to run off this solar power, saving money on your energy bill. This is particularly useful for businesses using heavy machinery or lots of computers.
There are other forms of solar power that can be used outside of the office. For example, you can now get portable solar chargers for phones and laptops – useful for working on the go or during a commute. You can also buy solar chargers for car batteries, which may be useful for installing in company cars.
