The green initiative is a huge thing in the business world. More than just a passing trend, businesses and consumers alike agree that taking care of the environment should be a number one priority.
With diminishing natural resources and other life forms, it seems like we are in the middle of a mass extinction since the disappearance of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago.
Each year, there are billions of plastics made, with around 100 billion thrown away. But out of this number, only less than 1 percent actually finds its way into a recycle bin. As a result, around 1 billion mammals and birds die each year due to plastic indigestion.
Businesses Going Green
When a business embraces green initiatives, it is not only the environment that benefits but also the company’s bottom line. It may seem for some that going green is just another short-lived fad or that your company is too small to really make an impact.
You have to understand, though, that striving for sustainability means staying competitive.
Furthermore, going green in your business does not entail spending tons of cash on the latest environmentally-friendly tech upgrades. Even as simple as waste segregation in your break room or switching to LED or CFL bulbs would suffice.
If you still need more convincing, here are some compelling reasons for your business to embrace the green movement.
#1 Financial Reasons
Small businesses stay on track by sticking to a strict budget. So, it is always worth the effort of taking a second look into minimizing your company’s spending, like taking up green measures.
A business can easily save money by reducing power usage. Opt to switch from the old-fashioned incandescent light bulbs to LED or CFL lights for your office or manufacturing plant. Doing this can help you save up to 70 percent on your electricity bill.
Going paperless is also another saving tip your company should seriously consider. An average American uses 7 trees per year in wood, paper, and other products made from trees. Overall, about 2 billion trees are used each year.
Imagine how many trees would be saved if all businesses go paperless.
#2 Tax Perks & Privileges
Taxes are something to look into as well if your company likes to save on money. Nowadays, taking green initiatives often equates to certain tax advantages and incentives.
Accordingly, the government gives out tax credits for companies that use renewable energy such as solar, wind, and geothermal power. Such perks include coverage of 30 percent of the cost for an installed system.
Many states and regions also offer additional incentives on top of those offered by the federal government. Thus, it does not require any hard thinking about how much your company would benefit by going green. You can do the math.
#3 Brand Building
73 percent of millennial consumers agree that they are willing to pay more for green goods. Despite economic challenges, the younger generation is dedicated to make the world a better place for future generations. Financial worries are inconsequential as compared to taking care of the planet.
What this means for your business is that embracing eco-friendly practices helps boost brand awareness. Your existing customers will stay happy, and you are more than likely to attract a new customer base.
Commitment to sustainability makes an instant marketing campaign. So go ahead and spread the word through your website and social media pages.
#4 Employee Retention
Hiring and keeping top talent is crucial in making your company the top leader in your industry. To do this, you must stand out among the competitors to attract the best employee.
One way of doing this is by embracing green initiatives. Just like most consumers these days, employees wanted to be environmentally responsible. Younger employees prefer to work for an organization with the same vision and goal as them regarding environmental sustainability.
Even the smallest practices of your company, like using recycled paper towels or waste management and segregation, piques the interest of an environmentally conscious applicant.
#5 Healthier Work Environment
Ensuring your facility is a healthy and nurturing place shows how much you actually value your employees. Most offices have plenty of pollutants lying around, causing employees to call in sick more than usual or complaining about headaches. Poor ventilation, carpet fumes, and too much artificial light are just some factors affecting the health and motivation level of your employees.
Consulting with a design building firm helps your organization address structural concerns that might be causing these health issues. Plus, they can recommend ways for your business to arrange your office in a way that is more inclined to sustainability.
Embracing sustainability is a huge undertaking that needs everyone’s hands on deck. With the right tools and dedication, you can ultimately achieve it and reap the multitude of rewards it delivers.