How Businesses Can Make a Positive Impact on the Environment

Because the climate is continually changing, the global concern on how to lower the environmental impact has appeared in everyone’s mind. Now more than ever, customers have become much more aware of global issues and want options for sustainable products. This is why businesses must adopt eco-friendly measures and create green products and services. The world can’t be saved overnight, but if anyone takes small but significant steps, the environmental impact can be reduced. Although it is not as easy as it sounds, many companies have begun to consider green alternatives. But the procedure can be challenging, especially for small businesses that have to follow a long and tiring process, and in several cases, they don’t even know where to start.

If you are in the same position and want to make a positive impact with your company, here is a guide to get you started.

Take Decisions Based on Sustainability

Sustainability can be characterised as a practice that provides present needs without putting in danger the ones of future generations. Although 90% of executives consider sustainability essential, not all companies have adopted appropriate strategies. Because customers are currently focused on purchasing eco-friendly services and products, implementing proper practices can improve the public image and increase profits and sales. You can see how this measure was successful in the example of Elon Musk, who has become one of the wealthiest people worldwide.

Also, a sustainable business will positively impact employees, who tend to be more engaged and happier if they know their work can help the ecosystem. Thus, they will feel less stressed and their productivity will increase. Plus, by implementing energy-efficiency measures, organisations will even save money and reduce energy bills.

Create Green Products

As a sustainable company, you must be careful with the created products, and it would be perfect if you followed these recommendations.

• Create biodegradable and recyclable products because they minimise the impact on the environment. Consider materials that don’t contain toxic substances that could contaminate soil or water. If you must use plastic, choose only one type so recyclers can accept it.
• Fair-trade: Ensure that the materials you need for your business come with fair-trade certification because it will show you that the producers from the developing countries were paid at or above the market rate.
• Know the source of your supplies: Choose suppliers you trust and know they have adopted eco-friendly practices. For example, if you need to purchase paper or wood, check if the trader constantly plants new trees to replace the harvested ones.
• Support local communities: If you want to impact the local economy positively, you can purchase from your community’s small businesses. Plus, in doing so, you will also reduce transportation emissions.

Use Sustainable Packaging

The packaging is the first thing a customer sees, so it is important to make a good impression. Because every simple change can make a huge difference, sustainable packaging can positively impact your business and the environment. This is why you must find the perfect design to increase your brand awareness and choose recyclable and reusable materials, such as cardboard boxes or canvas tote bags,  to boost your client’s satisfaction.

It would be perfect for you to know exactly what your customers are looking for, if they want eco-products and how to create them. And the good news is that now it is easier than ever to know your clients’ needs. For example, if your business is in Europe, you can use Savanta European market research to learn your customers’ behaviour, understand your audience better, and know what decisions to make in the future.

Reuse and Recycle

The best way to reduce the waste from landfills is not to make it in the first place. But this can’t be done in several cases, so a good solution will be to implement recycling solutions in your company. Because the world needs green initiatives, you can reduce the carbon footprint and global warming with vital steps. For example, you can opt for glass and ceramic alternatives instead of plastic cups, utensils or plates, and provide recycling bins for aluminium, glass or paper. Plus, this way, you will create a workplace culture that attracts the most qualified employees with whom you can accomplish your company’s goals.

Donate

If companies considered donating the items they no longer need, many supplies could have a second life in somebody else’s hands. Additionally, this practice greatly reduces waste and supports local communities because any business will surely find something that is left and can be donated. For example, if you have a construction company, you can give the extra materials left to organisations that build houses for people in need. Or if you know that in your city, there are children from lower-income families, you can offer them unneeded office supplies.

Also, suppose your business went through a recent rebranding. In that case, you will find plenty of promotional materials you don’t need anymore, like clothing, tote bags, mugs, or reusable water bottles. The food after an office party can also be donated to a local facility.

You can donate a modest amount of money monthly to give a better chance to someone less fortunate. It may seem a small gesture, but it will make a great difference, especially if several companies take the same measure.

You can positively impact the environment with your actions in various ways, so make sure you implement some of them in your business. Doing this will encourage good practices that can inspire other companies too.