As the Sustainable Development Goals become more relevant with rapid changes in the climate, it has resulted in a significant shift in public opinion and the purchasing habits of people. Businesses have to operate under a stricter lens and have to be more environmentally conscious.
This becomes especially relevant with single-use plastics, as its consumption has reached its highest during recent years. The public has become all the more aware of its environmental impact and scrutinises businesses that still operate with a business model that has not realised its responsibility towards the environment.
If you’re looking to reduce your business’s carbon footprint, we have listed a few steps you can take to ensure that people acknowledge that your company understands its environmental impact and works towards improving it.
Recycle your e-waste.
As the world shifts towards an electronically advanced era, this adds to the existing electronic waste. This includes gadgets like phones, laptops, computers, etc. Faulty devices end up in our landfills that are sometimes dubbed as incineration plants but need to be closely evaluated to ensure if they are functioning like one.
Some are transported to developing countries where their parts can be reused, but at the cost of shredding, burning, and dismantling products. Often there is more waste than what is useful. Make sure your company is doing its part by recycling any unwanted electronics. Look up reliable e-waste recycling facilities near your area or donation centres for electronics that you no longer use but work correctly.
Partner with green companies.
If you’re looking to maintain your business and also become sustainable, partnering with green companies will not only give your exposure to how you can manage your waste but improve your public image.
You can also encourage companies that are committed to sustainability to join hands and work on a project that reduces both companies’ carbon footprints. Creating such targets helps you set a goal that can eventually become fruitful for the environment, even if it takes time to kickstart in the beginning.
Create a sustainable culture within your company.
How a company’s employees behave within a shared space speaks volumes about the company’s environmental responsibility. Get your company on board with your sustainability goals, from your products to the culture in the company.
Invest in recycle bins, instil green habits, hang signs that remind workers of their carbon footprint, and reward them with non-monetary appreciation like longer breaks or treat them to lunch.
Prohibit single-use plastic.
As one of the main factors in increasing your company’s carbon footprint, ensure that you’ve entirely banned single-use plastic from your workplace, products or services. Contact packaging companies that can strike a fair deal with you regarding more sustainable packaging.
Remove disposable cups, forks, and tissues (for the most part) from the workplace and introduce reusable plastic or ceramic options. To eliminate disposable plastic bottles, discontinue any vending machine subscriptions, and provide a healthier and sustainable option for snacks or drinks.
While you work towards ensuring that your company’s carbon footprint is steadily reducing and you’re being responsible with your consumption, remember to create a kinder culture within your company when you introduce changes. You’re going to receive a better response if you’re more understanding and appreciative of any changes that occur.
We’re here to help.
Whether your a small business owner looking for some support or a consumer wanting to understand what it means to shop local, our team is here to help. Please get in touch to find out more.
