Guest Post: A Greener Environment Starts With You

By Michael Peggs

Making a commitment to a greener business environment can seem like a daunting task. However, there are a multitude of simple things we can do to reduce our carbon footprint by building environmentally conscious practices into our business’s workflow.

Check out these ten simple ways to create a greener environment:

    1.     Think before you print – Using less paper and being smart about the amount of paper you use is a great way to start your green crusade. Try going digital with your documents by using a program such as DocuSign. 

    2.     Replace outdated appliances with greener versions – According to Green America, choosing high-efficiency appliances over conventional models, saved US consumers $12 billion on utility bills last year and avoided greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 23 million cars.

    3.     Use alternative energy – In many parts of the country, businesses can purchase green power from their utility provider, which is generated from alternative sources, such as wind or solar power.

    4.     Use public transportation – Encourage your employees to do the same and perhaps think about laying on a mini-bus transportation service or setting up a car-pooling scheme. You could even think about riding your bike to work and setting an example to your colleagues.

    5.     Use green communication methods – Nowadays you can hold virtual meetings through many online VoIP products, such as Skype or Verizon, saving the cost of airline purchase and cutting down your carbon footprint at the same time.

    6.     Use biodegradable cleaners - Using natural, biodegradable cleaning products reduces the introduction of toxins into the environment.

    7.     Install a fire alarm system - A fire in your building can have a devastating effect, producing not only heat and smoke, but also toxic emissions and gases harmful to the environment. Make sure you select a professional and experienced fire alarm provider.

    8.     Work with like-minded companies – Seek out green business providers and work with them to build a cleaner, greener environment.

    9.     Use LED lights – They may have a higher purchase price, but they last much longer and consume far less energy.

    10.  Utilize green web hosting - Green web hosts are companies take part in schemes like renewable energy, tree planting and buying carbon offsets.

There is always more that we can do, but the most important thing is to start somewhere. By following some of the simple tips above you can reduce your costs, make yourself more attractive to eco-conscious consumers, and help the environment at the same time.

Be sure to let your clients know about your greener practices by creating an environmental mission statement or green section on your website. If you want to find out more about how to make your business greener, check out Green America’s section for greener businesses, and be sure to get your fire alarm installed to prevent fire in your building.

From utilizing less paper and low consumption light bulbs to collaborating with like minded companies and employees, together we can make a difference; after all a greener environment starts with you.

Michael Peggs is the founder of Marccx Media, a digital marketing agency specializing in SEO and Content Marketing. Before Marcxx, Peggs worked at Google in business development, forming digital media and advertising partnerships. He is also a blogger and podcaster, hosting the iTunes Top 10 New & Noteworthy podcast You University – The Personal Branding Podcast.