Importance of green initiatives

Feb 15 2010 by Carole White, The Journal

FOR some time now, we have been bombarded with the concept of "green" living and working together to slow down global warming, with terms such as "carbon footprint" and "energy efficiency" coined on what seems a weekly basis.

Now these terms are increasingly being applied within an economic context and businesses are obliged by law to reduce carbon emissions and encouraged to make their workplace a greener environment on the whole.

It’s easy to understand how large multinational corporations can have an effect on our environment with the volume of their global imports, exports and use of cheaper non-recyclable materials as well as the abundance of commercial property that needs to be powered.

By sharp contrast, a small to medium-sized business may seem insignificant when it comes to its impact on the environment. However, protecting the environment can benefit your business in a number of ways. You can drastically cut costs by reducing the amount of energy and you use and the waste you dispose of.

There may also be an opportunity to reduce insurance premiums through improved environmental practices. Tackling environmental issues can improve your reputation with all of your stakeholders - staff, customers, clients, investors and your local community.

Implement a few rules that are easy to adhere to and add one or two initiatives a month. Here are a few ideas to begin with:

Regulate room temperatures.

Turn off lights when not in use.

Buy energy-efficient appliances

Recycle office materials

Use local suppliers

Use energy-efficient light bulbs

It’s important these changes are made throughout the whole of your business and everybody gets involved. Form a “green team” – representatives from different departments that will raise employee awareness of opportunities to save energy.

A green team is motivational for employees who want to make a difference and this attitude can be applied to other issues your business may face. To find out about low-carbon initiatives call Tedco’s MintFresh Team on 0191 519 7498 or email mintfresh@tedco.org

Carole White is business support manager, Tedco