Steve Schlagel's Small Business Blog

Greening Your Small Business

by Steve on November 27, 2009

Even though many question the reality of global warming, there are often simple common-sense reasons to “green” your small business. One of those reasons is good PR! Advertising your commitment to environmental causes can make your company stand out over another.

The other reason is cost savings. For instance, installing CFL light bulbs saves money in the long run because your energy costs are lower. Anything you can do to your office space to reduce your utility costs (additional insulation, installing window film or low-flow faucets) helps your budget! Providing filtered water over bottled water is also both green and saves money.

Recycling generally won’t save you money, but it will make you a good citizen. These days you can recycle computer equipment, cell phones, batteries, ink cartridges, toner cartridges and more with mailing boxes or envelopes often provided by various charities. They often resell these products to provide income for their organization. Cell phones often go to soldiers, schools recieve computer equipment, etc.

Then there is the usual recycling. Your city likely has a program and will provide you with bins. You actually create a more involved, caring culture in your business when you involve employees in a recycling program. Be cautious in recycling office paper and mail however! Much of it may contain sensitive information and should be shredded and disposed of by a qualified company.

Being green doesn’t mean you have “bought in” to the global warming controversy. It does prove, though, that you have business savvy and can recognize a viable marketing trend (and the opportunity to do something good) when you see one. So turn off some lights and share your green-ness with your customers!

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