As a small business, it can feel like the standards are so much higher for you. You need to perform at the level of a huge corporation, take on social responsibility, be ethical, authentic, accessible and professional. 

Luckily, there are a few things that you can do when it comes to your social and eco-responsibility. Going green in a small company doesn’t have to be tricky or expensive. And, once implemented you will reap the rewards for years to come. 

Going green sets an expectation and culture in your company which means all new employees and old ones alike will naturally follow that lead. 

Making the job much easier. 

So what can you do for your company to start going green? 

Stationery

Are you printing everything out just so you have a record of it? Do you really need to? Think about your printing needs, and if it is something that you can skip or reduce. 

If you do need to print often, then consider using a printer that is eco-friendly, ink cartridges that are refillable or recyclable, and print double-sided as often as possible. You can also use recycled paper or printing paper that is chlorine-free. 

This is a small change that can make a big difference. 

Powered by sunshine

If you share an office building then it might be time to talk to the owner and other residents about how you can use commercial solar panels from the Melbourne Energy Group. 

When you install solar panels on your building, you will reap the benefits in terms of your energy bills, but you will also be cementing your standing as a company that is doing good for the environment. 

Implementing clean and renewable energy doesn’t require too much maintenance and has no carbon emissions. All something you can add to your website. 

Telecommuting

Research shows that many people can be more productive when working from home. Have a look at your team and see if people travel longer distances that might benefit from working from home. 

Even a few days a week or month can make a significant difference to the carbon footprint of your company. 

Power off

It might not surprise you to know that most of the power consumed in office buildings isn’t during working hours. Once people leave, much of the electronics in the office are left on stand-by – including weekends. 

This is an expense that you shouldn’t be paying for. There are programs to help you automate the process and ensure that all of your electric items are shut off exactly when they need to be. This is a significant saving on your bottom line and the amount of power you are using each day. 

Cleaning

If you clean the office yourself or have a cleaning company come and clean them, you can take the same action. Switch out all of the harsh chemicals for the greener alternatives. This removes the harmful substances within the office. 

Going green is just one way to have a productive, clean and carbon-friendly office environment. If you are looking at ways to maximise your commercial space, read this: Thinking About Commercial Renovations? Here’s How To Do It. 

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