Studies show that the majority of US businesses are increasing investment in sustainability. As consumers gravitate towards eco-friendly products and brands that champion greener living, it’s more important than ever for companies to embrace environmentally friendly ways of working. If you’re on a mission to create a greener business, here are some innovative steps to take today.

Cut down on commuting emissions

Commuting is a major contributor to emissions. If your employees drive to work regularly, it’s beneficial to encourage alternative ways to get around. Ideas include running, cycling, or walking schemes, offering incentives to share lifts or use public transport, arranging group transport options, and allowing teams to work remotely. Hybrid models and working from home have become increasingly popular in recent years. If you don’t need your team to be office-based full-time, switching to more flexible models could help you reduce your carbon footprint. In many cases, it can also boost productivity and morale. 

Eliminate single-use plastic

Single-use plastic is rife. Everywhere you go, from cafés and offices to waiting rooms and train stations, you see plastic bottles, bags, and containers. In the US alone, the average person uses 365 plastic bags and over 150 plastic bottles per year. Cutting down on plastic waste is a simple, effective way to make your business more eco-friendly. 

There are many ways to reduce plastic consumption, including providing an office water dispenser to encourage your employees to refill cups, flasks, and reusable bottles, installing recycling containers, and stocking products made from recycled or sustainable materials in workplace stores and canteens. It’s also beneficial to hang signs or posters to offer information about recycling and cutting down on plastic waste, and to send emails or organize team meetings to discuss new initiatives or additions. Water coolers are a great addition to encourage your employees to drink more water and stay hydrated while doing their bit for the environment. 

Invest in smart, energy-efficient tech

Smart, energy-efficient technology can help you modernize and drive your business forward while reducing energy consumption and lowering bills. If you have old electrical appliances and devices in your office, your heating system has been around for years, or you’re still using traditional, incandescent lighting, now is the time to make changes. LED lights use up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs. 

Before you make any purchases or invest money in your office tech, it’s wise to carry out a review and see where you could make changes and improvements. It’s also beneficial to explore costs and cost-savings both in the short and long-term. If you plan to stay in the same location for a long time and you own your office premises, you could also consider options such as adding solar panels. 

Businesses across the world are working hard to be more eco-friendly. If you’re eager to create a greener company, there are lots of steps you can take to make a positive difference to the environment. Examples include cutting down on commuting emissions, reducing single-use plastic consumption, and improving energy efficiency by upgrading or replacing tech.