Creating a Green Policy for Your Startup: Getting Started

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There are several reasons for your startup to make a commitment to the environment. Firstly, you might do it for your own conscience and values. You want to have a responsible company that tries to limit its impact on the planet. Another reason is that even if you aren’t too concerned with the environment, many of your customers may be. They appreciate it if you are able to be transparent about your business practices. Showing that you aim to be ethical and green can boost your business. Writing out a formal environmental policy is a good place to start. When you create it, remember to include these factors.

Energy and Water Usage

The use of energy and water are significant issues when it comes to the environment. A business can use a lot of both, so it’s sensible to strive to keep usage low. There are many policies you could consider implementing. You can start by buying commercial LED lighting and energy-saving appliances for your workplace. It is also important to take typical use into account. For example, employees should turn off equipment when not using it.

Paper

Many businesses have made a move toward using less paper. The reason for this isn’t always environmental. It can be cheaper and more organized to store things digitally instead. Your business can aim to reduce the amount of paper used in a number of ways. Avoid printing documents out unless necessary and try to use recycled paper. You could also set a goal to reduce packaging.

Stationery and Office Supplies

Other stationery and office supplies should be carefully monitored too. If it isn’t, wasteful purchases and usage could occur. Your company can aim to ensure you always evaluate the need for any products before buying them. Researching the possibility of hiring certain equipment or furniture is also a good idea. When making purchases, you can try to buy efficient and environmentally-friendly items.

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Transportation

You can implement policies that affect travel both within and outside of the business. For example, you can try to limit and business trips to essential ones. There are many tools that can be used to communicate with others, instead of travelling to meet in person. However, employees can also help to reduce the amount of transportation they use. You can offer incentives for certain practices, such as using public transport or cycling. If using vehicles is necessary for the business, you should try to choose green models and use them efficiently.

Maintenance

Business premises and equipment need to be cleaned and maintained. However, certain cleaning products or maintenance tasks could endanger the environment. Your company can commit to using green cleaning products and services where possible. You can also ensure that maintenance companies or staff take responsibility for the environment. For example, people performing maintenance on your building may have to be careful of asbestos.

Once you have considered what will go in your green policy, you can write it into a formal document. Of course, you must also make sure it is implemented.