The conversation on environmental conservation efforts is picking up pace and with good reason. The environment continues to suffer from the effects of pollution and global warming as a result of human and business operations, and there is a need to stop this. However, large manufacturing and industrial corporations have been the focus of environmental conservation endeavors, yet, the efforts are a collective responsibility that requires all to participate. Both large firms and small businesses have a role to play. Here is a look at some strategies small businesses can adopt in their operations as they play their part in preserving the ecosystem.
Adopting Energy Efficiency Policies
Electricity generation increases carbon emissions. This is because most power generating machinery run on fuel. Therefore, increased power consumption leads to increased carbon emissions. Every business has fallen victim to high electricity consumption with an equally high bill. The primary factor driving the power bills soaring is often an issue of inappropriate power practice. Leaving the lights on when not in use, not powering down the machines that can remain off overnight, using non-energy efficient lighting systems among others are top contributors to power wastage. Small businesses can remedy this by using energy efficient methods in their operations. They can start by using energy-saving lighting, and remodel the business premises to allow for more natural light during the day. Furthermore, any machinery not in use should be powered down.
Advocating for Better Recycling Initiatives
Research continues to show how the environment has become a choking hazard for both marine and land life. Oceans and lands are littered with plastics and other non-degradable items. Given that recycling efforts are in place in most organizations, clearly more needs to be done to reduce the waste seen in the environment. Entities should invest in the latest recycling initiatives. This culture should also be extended to their staff to ensure they too practicing recycling away from work. This goes a long way in reducing the non-degradable waste choking the environment.
Encouraging Carpooling in the Workplace
Car fumes significantly contribute to the carbon footprint affecting the atmosphere. Businesses can encourage carpooling as a policy in the company as they play a part in reducing these emissions. Alternatively, the companies can offer transport to all its staff from their homes, to their workplace and back again. Some companies have promoted the use of public transport or the use of bicycles as a means of transportation. Small enterprises can also adopt this policy. Carpooling, cycling, use of public or company-provided transport as a policy is a win in all fronts. The staff members save on transport costs, the company improves the staff’s working environment, and there are fewer carbon emissions to the atmosphere.
Insisting on the Use of Eco-friendly Cleaning Agents
This may come as a surprise, but some products contain chemicals deemed hazardous to the environment and may also affect human health. Companies should insist on the purchase and use of Eco-friendly products within the company. This action has a trickle-down effect on the company’s employees. They are sure to take the initiative up and use Eco-friendly cleaning products in their homes.
Participation in Social Environmental Welfare Activities
The environmental management discussion extends to the ways businesses and the community at large can collectively participate in bettering the environment. Clean-up and tree planting exercises top the list of social, environmental welfare activities an entity can embrace. Small businesses can be part of these initiatives either through initiating or sponsoring said programs. This way, the companies adopt an environment rejuvenation policy as part of their contribution to a safer and cleaner environment.
All stakeholders on planet earth must protect the ecosystem. It is, therefore, incumbent on all individuals and entities to play their role in protecting the environment, no matter how small the initiatives. This will ensure the environment is safe and clean for all.