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Environmental impact is currently one of the primary concerns for many businesses across the globe. As a result, companies worldwide are taking steps to minimize the way in which they damage the environment. This can be done in a variety of ways, and not only aids the planet, but also engages younger employees. Generation Z is currently entering the job market, and this generation of workers are extremely focused on ethics and values. So, what steps can you make in making your business more environmentally friendly and more attractive to younger candidates?
Use Supplies Made from Recycled Materials
First thing’s first, you can take some steps in the right eco direction by investing in supplies that are made from recycled materials. For example, companies that engage in transit may opt for recycled pallet blocks and other recycled supplies, such as presswood pallets or plastic containers. These are considered even more effective if they can also be recycled at the end of their lifespan. Recycling is a huge factor of making your company more green as it reduces the amount of materials in landfill sites that sit there for years on end.
Minimize Paper Use
Most companies use more paper than they realize from printing out emails for reference to photocopying memos for everyone in the office. In order to reduce your paper use, you should use social media or other forms of online communication to interact with customers, instead of sending physical letters. You also might get rid of a paper billing system and do all your billing via an online system. Additionally, you can store all documents on the cloud, rather than filling filing cabinets with paper. Not only does this help the planet, but it also allows for a more organized system to navigate. Finally, you should encourage employees to use email wherever possible.
Make Your Website Green
Have you paid attention to your web host? Well, they may not be using renewable energy sources, as many web hosts are these days. In fact, some plans may be cheaper when the hosts specialize in green energy. Therefore, not only is this often a more affordable option, but it’s much better for the environment and makes your company more enticing to younger candidates.
Consider Your Lighting
Although LED bulbs are more expensive, they last much longer than the alternatives and are much more energy efficient. As well as this, you’ll also save a lot of money on replacing bulbs. Similarly, you can reduce the amount of electricity that you use by making ample use of natural light. As well as this, you should make sure that you switch off all lights when rooms aren’t in use and encourage employees to do the same. This will save a lot of electricity, consequently saving money and the planet alike.
Consider Travel
It’s likely that your employees will use a car to commute to work, which isn’t great for the carbon footprint. In order to combat this, you could reward people for partaking in a carpool scheme or a cycle to work program. Otherwise, you might introduce a work from home scheme so that employees don’t have to come into the office at all.
Encourage Recycling
Make sure the office has the correct bins available so that employees can separate their rubbish into the correct bins. You might also include a list of things that can and can’t be recycled on the fridge to avoid confusion from each of your employees. Going green is an extremely important business initiative. How will you implement it in your company?
