Ways to Make a Business Sustainable
Business can go a way towards better building and operations health and a more sustainable future
Do you know that sustainability is becoming a priority for businesses nowadays? Meanwhile, it not only impacts companies’ cost structures but also acts as an important differentiator for investors, consumers, and B2B customers. But how do you practice that? Today we are going to speak about seven such ideas which any business if apply definitely will see a change.
1. Create a Sustainability Action Plan – Start with creating a sustainability action plan. Hence, the responsibility should start with the organization’s top administrators. It should however become incorporated into the company’s vision and policies. The first step could be a company-wide resource audit that evaluates potential cost savings. As known doing so includes the benefits of incorporating renewable, clean energy technologies, like solar, wind turbines, biofuels, micro hydropower systems, advanced batteries, LED lighting, etc.
2. Examine your HVAC System – Again, an energy audit may disclose that heating and cooling spaces and heating water are the hugest energy expenses. However, there may be system improvements that will save money and reduce your company’s impact on the environment. If applicable, switch to programmable thermostats.
3. Upgrade Lighting – Do you know that changing out old appliances and bulbs, and energy-efficient lighting is one of the shortest ways to curtail your energy bills? LEDs are more expensive than traditional incandescent and fluorescent bulbs but payback from energy savings is now usually between three months and one year. However, it depends on usage and electricity rates.
4. Enhance Fleet Energy Efficiency – If your company administers a fleet, then alter it to other fuels or electric. Notably, modifications can be made with alternative fuels. One can also switch to hybrid or all-electric vehicles to see the change. Alternative fuel vehicles, especially EVs coming off lease, are reaching price parity with internal combustion vehicles.
5. Reduce Water Waste – Well, Water in the world is becoming a scarce resource. Businesses be it of any size should begin using it carefully. If one examines pipes, toilets, and faucets, then it will reveal areas where water is leaking. Small drips may seem trivial, but they add up over time. Sealing or replacing leaky pipes, toilet valves, and faucets will help conserve water and lower your costs.
6. Exercise Sustainable Landscaping – A sustainable, water-conscious landscape is again a way to preserve water and energy. It further curtails waste and decreases runoff.
7. Divert Waste – Establish a recycling program. This should include dealing with food waste by composting and working with local agencies that collect leftover food and redistribute it. They eventually help deal with the problem of having 52 million tons of food Americans sent to landfills each year.
To sum up, a business can go an improved way towards better building and operations health and a more sustainable future.
