I was recently at a business conference and the topic of how to make your business more environmentally friendly was debated. Running a business in Washington state is a little different than running one in Arizona, especially when it comes to running an eco friendly green business. Certain states across the U.S. have ‘green business’ more top of mind than others by touting how many LEED buildings there are or implementing company-wide recycling and reduction programs. Going green in business isn’t necessarily a new concept; however, a common misconception about going green in business is that it’s only something millennials care about. Actually, this isn’t true when you consider earlier generations were just as much in tune with the environment (let’s forget that they smoked cigarettes at your desk). If your parents or grandparents lived during the counterculture movement in the 1960’s, they can tell you a lot about environmental awareness and activism (hellllooo Woodstock). While there was a slight lull in the movement during the 1980s and ’90s (possibly due to increased hairspray use), things have shifted back to an environmental focus recently. Entrepreneurs, in the world of green business, going green has more of a sense of urgency and purpose – but does it really matter?
Can Being a Green Business Increase Your Sales?
Recent statistics show that 55% of all consumers typically exhibit a willingness to pay more for a product if they know a business has green practices. This is a huge jump in sales potential based purely on being environmentally conscious. However, you can’t just slap a recycling sticker on some paper products or say “we care about the environment, look at this picture of me hugging a tree,” you have to prove this through your actions.
Being genuine and authentic about going green is a must for people to want to take notice. Don’t dive into the process of “greenwashing,” which means putting out false advertising about being a green business, when you don’t live up to your statements. Customers are very astute, and they’ll be aware of what you’re doing. Fortunately, you have a lot you can do to prove you’re creating an eco friendly and sustainable green business.
Most importantly, for something like this to work and be effective, you have to have a vested interest in it. You don’t have to try to rescue the planet in one day, but recognize the impact you have on your planet, your business, your customers, employees… the list goes on. Find a couple of items that are easy to implement, also consider creating an environmental business mission statement to make you and your team accountable.
Recycling & Reusing
Minimize unnecessary waste by first having a recycle bin! This may be a no-brainer, but in your busy work day if it’s out of sight… yup it’s out of mind too. As many note, ridding yourself of paper is a good first step for going green. My digital marketing agency rarely uses a ream of paper a month which means using the pricey recycled stuff a no-brainer / no-risk option. Using recycled paper is an easy way to start and make sure you opt for the post-consumer stuff too. Any recyclable products you use should have an indicator to prove to customers you’re enacting a green program.
With vintage items always on trend (with pre-teen daughters how can I miss this), it’s a great idea to consider buying used or ‘vintage’ furniture rather than brand new. Not only does it reduce your carbon footprint and environmental impact, it can give your office space some personality too.
Using CFL or LED Lighting
Despite CFL and LED bulbs costing more, they can last for up to one decade. They’re also environmentally safe, helping you to bring more energy efficiency to your business operations. Placing a sign in your business that you use green practices in your lighting might look ostentatious, but it’s ok to share that you do care and it might inspire other businesses and maybe even your clients or customers to make some small changes as well.
Green Web Hosting
Recycling and using more energy-efficient appliances in your business are fairly standard green practices. You can also look into green web hosting; a slightly newer practice, though it’s just as important if you’re using e-commerce. The process involves using renewable energy to power your website. This not only saves you money, it helps build your green reputation. Plus, you may get rebates and other local tax incentives for taking part.
Resources to Help Your Business Go Green
Various resources exist online to help you find ways to go green in easy ways. For those of you starting a small business, try the Small Business Administration and their green business guide to get started. The EPA also has information to help you with the recycling process. Through the SBA, they can even help you find financing with environmental grants and loans.
Sometimes it IS easy being green (right, Kermit?). I’d love to hear from you what other green business you’re doing as a kick butt entrepreneur.
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