Environmental sustainability is increasingly becoming an important issue for businesses. Companies that implement eco-friendly practices benefit from increased brand reputation, reduced operating costs, and a better relationship with stakeholders. For those wondering how to make your Geelong business more eco-friendly, we’ve put together ten steps to help you get started on your sustainable business journey.
10 tips for eco-friendly business practices:
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Reduce Energy Use
Energy efficiency should be a top priority for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Simple changes, such as turning off lights and equipment when not in use, can make a big impact. Additionally, investing in energy-efficient equipment, such as LED lighting and Energy Star-rated appliances, can also help reduce energy consumption.
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Implement a Recycling Program
Recycling programs can reduce the amount of waste a business generates and help it conserve natural resources. This can include paper, plastics, and electronics, among others. By diverting waste from landfills, businesses lower their impact on the environment.
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Use Renewable Energy Sources
Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, produce far less greenhouse gas emissions than traditional fossil fuels. By investing in renewable energy, businesses reduce their carbon footprint, lower their operating costs, and demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability.
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Choose Eco-Friendly Products and Supplies
Choosing products and supplies that are environmentally friendly will help your business reduce your impact on the environment. Which products could you start using that are made from recycled materials, biodegradable and compostable products? At the Geelong Chamber, we have decided to print flyers and brochures on 100% recycled paper in small batches, so we only use the minimum amount of paper needed.
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Make your next event carbon-neutral
Making an event carbon-neutral means you are looking after the environment while also holding an event. Our 2022 Geelong Business Excellence Awards were certified carbon-neutral. How we did it? We rethought every aspect of the Awards focusing on food, marketing materials, decoration and transport.
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Minimize Water Use
Water is a finite resource, so reducing water efficiently is a great way to be more eco-friendly. Simple steps include fixing leaks, using drought-resistant plants in landscaping, and installing low-flow toilet.
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Encourage Sustainable Transportation
Encouraging employees to use public transportation, carpool, bike, or walk to work will make an impact on your business’s carbon footprint. Offering incentives for sustainable transportation, such as discounted transit passes or bike storage facilities, also encourages employees to adopt eco-friendly habits.
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Educate Employees and Stakeholders
Education and awareness are critical components of an effective environmental sustainability program. Businesses can educate employees and stakeholders about the importance of environmental sustainability and the actions they can take to reduce their impact on the environment. This can include regular communications, training programs, and community outreach efforts.
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Contribute to local eco initiatives
Take part in local initiatives to reduce your carbon footprint. Whether it’s ‘Bike to Work Day’, an initiative to pick up trash at the beach or corporate volunteering at a farm, contributing to local eco initiatives means you are a part of a bigger program to enhance an eco-friendly lifestyle.
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Commit to the UN Global Compact
Committing to the UN Global Compact means your business is taking part in collectively shaping part of a sustainable future. You can find out how to get started by reading these UN Global Compact resources. While the UN Global Compact includes sustainability in its 10 commitments, it also focuses on human rights, labour and anti corruption.
By implementing these ten tips, businesses can take meaningful steps to reduce their impact on the environment and demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability. These efforts can help reduce operating costs, improve brand reputation, and foster a better relationship with stakeholders. By taking action now, your business can help ensure a sustainable future for the planet and future generations.
This article was written by Christina Street, Geelong Chamber digital marketing and content development specialist and bike riding advocate.
