greenliving
network for communicating with busi- ness stakeholders.
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Operate a green office: Take of- fice supplies, materials and space to the next green level by making eco-friendly choices, which may mean eliminating some items entirely. For example, replace disposables with a durable or permanent equivalent.
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HOW TO GREEN A BUSINESS
Simple Steps to an Eco-Friendly Bottom Line by Derek Markham
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o business owner relishes spend- ing extra money for something that won’t immediately pay for itself with increased revenue, and greening one’s operations is such an endeavor. However, one common misperception is that going green costs money that cuts into the bottom line, when in fact, some options will end up saving money, adding to profits or making it possible to offer lower-priced products and services than the competi- tion. Here’s how:
Integrate green into the business plan: Start designing green elements into any business from day one or as soon as possible.
Write an environmental mission statement: Craft a green mission statement, display it prominently and
38 Collier/Lee Counties
review it periodically. Having a clear vision helps to define being green and communicate it to customers.
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Join green business groups: Use green business networks to learn from others or to form partnerships or collaborate. In an effective network, any associated cost will likely pay for itself through increased knowledge, customers and collaboration.
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Appoint a sustainability director: Make one person with authority re- sponsible for coordinating green efforts, tracking results and being accountable for increasing sustainability.
Practice green marketing: Add digital messaging to the mix, using social media, a blog and banner adver- tising. The Internet provides a real-time
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Choose renewable energy: Power operations with renewable energy or invest in alternative options.
Choose green communications: Explore obtaining telephone and In- ternet services from a green or socially responsible company. Use teleconfer- encing or video calls to reduce trans- portation and explore the many free options available, such as Skype.
Implement paperless banking and billing: Choose electronic bank statements, invoices and billing for suppliers and utilities. Use the com- puter to send and receive faxes instead of producing printed copies.
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Green the air: Clean indoor air by using live plants. Install an air filtration system to protect employees and customers.
Clean green: Purchase eco- friendly alternatives for cleaning and maintaining the office and manu- facturing sites; a greener alternative exists for just about any related need.
Build a culture that’s condu- cive to reusing and recycling: Making both the norm means such initiatives will flourish without having to continually change people’s habits.
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Encourage alternative trans- portation: Give employees incentives to carpool or ride bikes. Provide telecommuting options.
Source from green suppliers: Investigate sourcing options and give more weight to green businesses. Purchasing from a green business doesn’t always mean extra cost, and might make more sense overall.
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