BUSINESS CLINIC
set up one or more staff members with the task of finding environ- mentally friendly solutions to some of the larger issues you’ve yet to tack- le. Your staff, your eco ambassa- dors and solution finders will look at reducing your carbon emissions and other harmful practices.
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in what they’re selling. They want to know that the business they work for takes a proactive approach in making the world a better place. These are your brand ambassadors, your on-the-street marketers and having them sing your praises is worth more than any catchy adver- tising slogan.
How to make positive changes Taking the time to transform your business practices is worth the ef- fort and yes, the investment. Here’s how you might go about it:
• Start with the easy wins More recycling bins around the of- fice, for example. That’s an easy and efficient way to boost your stats. It’s also a visual marker to staff that you’re taking your responsibilities seriously. Look for other key ways to start making small changes that don’t take much organisation but do make an impact.
Organisations that go through a mountain of printed material might consider making a permanent switch over to digital. Perhaps keeping the print as an on-demand alternative only.
• Keep staff informed You want employees on-side and empowered to come up with sug- gestions and solutions. You could
alternative may need a one-off ex- penditure. This might mean investing in re-useable plastic tubs, beeswax wraps and so on. Get the costings and begin a phased approach if necessary.
• Create a plan Going into full panic mode and trying to do too much at once is unneces- sary. Construct a plan that takes into account all the elements of your
The ethical benefits outlined above are not the only benefits of having a greener business. In this socially conscientious world we now live in, this message can be extremely strong as part of your marketing sto- ry. People are more likely than ever before to consider a company with a more ethical outlook for the commu- nity and the wider world. Consider how you can best market this mes- sage to your client community.
27 27 Commit some budget
If you do appoint a team, let them know that you’re prepared to back your plans with some investment. You may want to focus on one major project at a time. For example, if you run a restaurant or café and use a lot of plastic wrap to keep your products fresh, then finding an
business. Becoming a green busi- ness may save money in the long run, even if there is a substantial initial outlay. For example, adding solar panels to the roof of offices or industrial buildings that you own, reducing print costs and so on.
There are also Green Grants out there for businesses embarking on projects to reduce energy waste and carbon emissions. You should find more information from your local authority or online.
Key takeaway Becoming a green business is not something to undertake for the sake of it. It’s a serious business decision and one that could impact you for years to come, hopefully for the better. If you’re committed to making small decisions that lead to big differences, grab hold of that inspiration and start planning. Your team, your customers and ultimately the environment will thank you for it.
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