How to make your business more environmentally friendly
This month we saw Earth day go from strength to strength and become one of the largest environmental movement, with over 1 billion people and more than 75,000 partners involved each year across almost 200 countries.
So what can WE do to help be an eco-friendly business? Here are our top tips to help your business move towards net-zero carbon. Not only are there environmental benefits, but there are also financial and accounting benefits too!
Businesses need to lead the way in moving towards net-zero carbon emissions. There is no quick fix so businesses need to start the journey now and move towards the ultimate goal of net-zero, over the next few years. Here are some of the changes that you can implement in your firm.
How to be environmentally friendly
- Switch to a green energy supplier
- Switch to electric vehicles
- Reduce business travel
- Focus on reducing waste
- Switch to lower carbon suppliers
Switch to a green energy supplier.
Green energy is generated by renewable sources such as wind, hydroelectric or solar. The more businesses that switch to green energy suppliers the quicker the shift away from fossil fuels such as coal or oil will be.
Switch to electric vehicles.
If your business has a fleet of petrol or diesel vehicles, you could switch across to electric-only vehicles, this will naturally make you that much more of an eco-friendly business. It is also worth noting that company car drivers who choose an electric vehicle also enjoy a reduced benefit-in-kind, for tax purposes. If you deliver products or services to your customers, showing up in an electric vehicle sends a positive message that your firm is an environmentally responsible business.
Reduce business travel.
Reducing business travel will help to reduce your carbon footprint. Air travel is responsible for significant carbon emissions so really challenge yourselves on whether meeting objectives can be met via Zoom or Teams. Commuting also contributes to carbon emissions. Encouraging your staff to work from home, some of the time will help to reduce your carbon emissions. Face-to-face meetings are still very important but it is key to get the balance right.
Focus on reducing waste.
Wasted paper, water, energy, or raw materials contribute to climate change and also cost money.
You can reduce your energy bills by ensuring that all equipment is turned off at night.
You can also invest in improved insulation and thermal management of your business premises in order to reduce the amount of central heating that is required, particularly in the winter months. You can also encourage staff to print less and reuse or recycle materials, where possible. Embracing new technology such as electronic signatures, etc. can further reduce your reliance on paper.
Switch to lower carbon suppliers.
Research low carbon suppliers and where possible, switch to using them instead of your traditional suppliers. Even small changes such as using a local supplier rather than an overseas firm will help to reduce the carbon footprint of transporting materials to your business premises. If you only buy from other businesses that are taking action on climate change, you will help to further drive the business community towards our shared goal of net-zero carbon. Examples could include banks that offer paperless statements, logistics companies that use electric vans, or food companies that recycle and use minimal packaging.
What is my carbon footprint?
Curious about the carbon footprint of your business? There are a variety of information sources that can help you see your impact and potentially help transform you into an eco-friendly business. Head to the government carbon calculator.
For help with business advice, tax efficiencies, or simple advice on choosing an electric vehicle, contact us today on 01704 546000, or via email enquiries@kirkwoodwilson.co.uk