One of the top trends for companies today all over the country is sustainability. Today, more state legislatures are considering actions to help promote sustainable business practices. These eco-friendly habits have the power to help conserve the planet’s natural resources and make an impact on the future. Here are seven business practices that state lawmakers should focus on promoting to the private sector of business.
1. Reducing Travel
One of the best ways a business can help reduce its carbon footprint is to cut back on the employees’ business travel. Sending out multiple people on company-sponsored trips drains resources such as fuel, energy, and more. Business travelers can calculate the carbon footprint of their trip to see the impact of their travels. Instead of business travel, companies can start using digital technology, such as video conferencing and cloud computing, to connect with clients and other workers across the globe.
2. Conserving Water
Another goal that legislators can help businesses focus on is conserving water. In many places around the country, water is becoming more of a premium resource. Companies can be less wasteful with water by educating employees about conservation practices. They can also use low-flow toilets and revamp their landscaping materials so extra watering isn’t as necessary.
3. Recycling Waste
It’s important for all companies to commit to regular recycling as well. In most locales around the state, recycling is required. Sometimes, businesses may not be as consistent with their recycling practices. In some parts of the country, businesses are held accountable for responsible recycling habits and fined if they aren’t doing their part. To avoid paying hefty fees, companies must teach employees to properly sort recycled waste instead of throwing it away.
4. Eliminating Paper
Paper is another resource that many companies heavily use. Today, it’s easier than ever to switch to a paper-free business model and use all digital resources. For many existing companies, it may take a big effort to change from a physical filing room to a virtual one. Eliminating this real estate and the constant supply of paper can help reduce costs and improve the bottom line. It may be time for state lawmakers to consider offering incentives to businesses that go paper-free.
5. Using Local Vendors
Next, it’s also helpful to the planet when companies partner with local vendors for supplies. Instead of ordering materials and parts from suppliers out of state or out of the country, it’s more sustainable and green to use a local company. This practice helps reduce carbon emissions of shipping and transportation of the goods. It also helps benefit the local economy and improve the business community within the state.
6. Opting for Green Energy Sources
A business’ use of energy is also a big part of maintaining a sustainable business model in today’s world. Companies should reconsider their energy sources for their physical location and opt for green resources whenever possible, such as solar or wind. Michael A. Peck, MAPA, is a leader in the green energy sector dedicated to bringing sustainable power to companies. Michael A. Peck, MAPA Group, has focused on the manufacturing industry to make companies work more efficiently and reduce costs.
7. Dedicating Staff Members to the Cause
Finally, companies can truly show their commitment to running an eco-friendly business model by creating positions dedicated to sustainability within their organization. The future of profitability and expansion lies within a strong model of sustainability, so it makes financial sense to focus on this goal in the private sector of business. Lawmakers can help guide the way by introducing legislation to make it happen.
Individuals in the business world can start making a bigger impact on the health of the planet by creating a sustainable business model. Using these practices can show the world how to reduce emissions and save resources across the industries.
