We are all aware now of the importance of reducing our carbon footprint. The effects of not doing so are all around us, with rising earth temperatures, water, air, and light pollution, and landfills unmanageably overwhelmed.
As individuals, it is incumbent upon us all to do our parts. But for businesses, the responsibility is even greater because the impact is greater. Large energy companies make up the biggest part of that, with only 100 companies responsible for 71% of global emissions. But small businesses impact the environment, too, just in different ways, such as the use of non-biodegradable packaging and chemical pollution leeching into the groundwater.
The swrm team knows that measuring and reducing your carbon emissions can be difficult, so we’ve made it simpler. If you want to reduce your personal emissions to help save the planet while also attracting more customers, we’ve got the right solutions for you.
Become an Environmentally Responsible Small Business
If you’re interested in starting your own company to address the issues of climate change and sustainability, there are several options for you to consider. Taking into consideration what you’re passionate about, what skills you have, and what funding you have available, you can narrow down your options.
Selling eco-friendly products like reusable water bottles, organic cotton clothing, biodegradable cutlery, and even bamboo picnicware can make a great online business that doesn’t require you to waste resources.
Green cleaning services are growing in popularity. These cleaning services use earth-friendly cleaning products that don’t harm the environment. They also use reusable cloths for cleaning instead of paper towels or paper towels made from recycled and biodegradable. paper.
Local Recycling Programs are in high demand for those living in towns and cities where that is not a service covered by local waste companies.
Renewable Energy Sales and Installation, such as solar panels and wind turbines for homes and businesses, can be lucrative as well as environmentally beneficial.
Make Your Current Small Business Eco-Friendly
Just as you would in your home, become more energy efficient in your business, too. Switch to LED lights, recycle anything that can be, adjust thermostats, and turn off lights, appliances, and equipment when not in use.
Use sustainable products. Use compostable packaging materials made from plant-based materials, like corn, sugar cane, or bamboo. Be sure you’re sourcing from vendors who also operate using sustainable business practices, and buy locally as much as possible to reduce shipping.
Implement water conservation practices like low flush toilets, fixing any leaks, and installing cisterns to collect rainwater for landscaping, keeping in mind that collected rainwater is not potable.
Reduce paper use by working online and storing files and documents in the cloud. Most office correspondence can be done electronically, but when paper is necessary, be sure and use paper made from recycled materials.
Let Your Customers Know
Communicate your commitment to being environmentally responsible on your website, your social media sites, and in your marketing materials. Oftentimes it’s easier to convey this information by using images, graphs, and infographics on your website. If want to create those infographics yourself, here’s a possible solution. By using free templates, you can personalize them by adding your own text, colors, background, and design elements.
Use your social media sites to engage with your customers and clients. There, you can promote your own smart practices and inform your followers how they, too, can reduce their carbon footprint.
Support environmental causes. You can even dedicate a certain percentage of your sales to the cause you’ve partnered with. Research the organization first to make sure your dollars are well spent. Let your customers know how to recycle your products and packaging.
It’s Good For Your Bottom Line, Too
Reducing your carbon footprint is a smart business practice because reducing energy consumption reduces energy costs.
Your customers are willing to pay more for locally sourced and eco-friendly products and are more loyal than most others which means repeat business.
Your brand and image will be recognized as one committed to reducing your own carbon footprint as well as that of the community. This is something that consumers will find when they’re researching environmentally friendly products and companies.
Lowering your carbon footprint is important for the planet and good for business. The steps you take now to work toward making the earth a cleaner and healthier place to be are important to the future and to your bottom line. A win/win!
