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Green Tips For Small Business Owners (SBOs): Environmentally + Financially Friendly

In 2020, companies that are implementing eco-friendly solutions around the office are more likely to win over customers, while helping the environment. Countless organizations – even those on the Fortune 500 – are employing green initiatives within their business models. And, not only is public perception shifting in terms of the environmental responsibility of large and small businesses, but that responsibility doubles as a smart financial decision, as well. 

So, if you’re a small business owner (SBO), here are some eco-friendly tips that will help you do your part when it comes to minimizing your organization’s impact on the environment.

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Implement Reusable Items Where Possible

three environmentally friendly water bottles in a row

Just as you need a smart small business SEO strategy, you need a smart waste management strategy at the office. From the bathroom to the breakroom, there are plenty of opportunities to go green when it comes to updating your supply stock. In the bathroom, consider using cloth reusable hand towels instead of paper towels. Buy bulk hand soap and reusable dispensers instead of buying the single-use hand soaps. 

If you have a kitchen or breakroom, offer employees reusable coffee mugs, plates and utensils to use. Not only is this move eco-friendly, but you’re also cutting the monthly line item of buying more paper plates and plastic cups for employees to use. Avoid purchasing single-use plastic or aluminum beverages such as bottled water, energy drinks or soda.

Don’t use K-Cups

In a similar vein, avoid K-Cups and other single-use coffee products. Many have raised the alarms about the environmental impact of K-Cups – however, while convenient, these non-reusable, non-recyclable cups are doing more harm than good. As John Hocevar, Greenpeace campaign director puts it, “Coffee pods are one of the best examples of unnecessary single-use plastics that are polluting our planet.” Instead, check out bulk ground coffee – even from your local big box store. You’ll get more cups of coffee per pot brewed, and can put grounds and filters in the compost bin.

Find Green Cleaning Supplies

Nowadays, it’s not hard to find eco-friendly cleaning supplies at almost any store. From bathroom cleaners to dishwasher detergents, there are plenty of options that are earth friendly, but don’t compromise cleanliness. Don’t forget that good old water and white vinegar is also a powerful cleaning solution that doesn’t harm the environment. Here are a few brands that have great reputations for their eco-friendly cleaning supplies:

  • Mrs. Meyers: This down-to-earth company offers natural cleaning supplies derived from plants, that smell great and are tough on grime.
  • Better Life: Offers a variety of products and supplies that are developed and packaged in an eco-friendly way.
  • Eco-Me: With a powerful line of eco-friendly janitorial supplies, Eco-Me is a great option for larger outfits.

Recycle Everywhere

four types of recycling material – paper, glass, organic and plastic

You likely are already offering recycling for plastics, paper products, glass and aluminum (if not – get on that), but think about other ways to recycle goods. Keep a stash of old office supplies like notebooks that may have a few unused pages, old pens, computer mouses, cables, desk and other items. Going green often means re-using where you can, and you don’t always need brand-new supplies or gadgets to be effective. 

Also consider ways to green your procurement efforts when you need to buy things for your organization. Look to buy things that are already recycled (office printer paper, computers, etc.), made from renewable or recyclable materials, or that use minimal packaging. 

Searching for more great SBO marketing content? Take a look at our post: 8 Tips to Turn Your Hobby into a Small Business.

Reduce Your Energy Footprint 

From the lighting to the kitchen appliances to the heating and air conditioning, your organization uses a lot of energy on a day-to-day basis. But there are a few easy ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Switch out all your light bulbs to LED bulbs to be eco-friendly and cost effective. These bulbs last years longer than their traditional counterparts, and are much more efficient. 

Consider purchasing a smart thermostat for your office. These thermostats can be scheduled to reduce wasted heat or AC when you’re not in the office, and help you find the optimal balance to help save energy and money. 

If your budget allows, you can also explore going solar if you own your office building. Many more companies are offering solar power, and the price may not be as expensive as you think. However, if it’s still out of your range, see if your energy utility provider offers solar options. Companies like Xcel Energy offer an option where you can take advantage of solar panels offsite, but still reap the sun-powered rewards of clean energy.

Implement Paperless SBO Marketing Campaigns

While print campaigns are essential components of the overall marketing mix, they’re also just that – a component. There are plenty of other options that can reduce paper, printer ink, postage and all the other waste that inherently accompanies direct mail, flyering and other similar types of traditional campaigns. For example, with a luxury website design, keyword-targeted content development and quality copywriting, you can achieve hundreds, thousands even millions of users to your unique assets. Plus, it’s a great way to diversify your marketing efforts when it comes to reaching new and unique customers.

traditional advertisement strategy compared side-by-side with digital marketing strategies

If this piques your interest, reach out to our team for help improving your small business’ SEO. We can help supercharge your brand.

For Creative Small Business Ideas, Hire Frahm Digital

Whether you have a viral product, are just starting out or want to take a few ideas off the back-burner, Frahm Digital can help develop a digital presence for your small business. Whether you need a beautiful website, creative copywriting or content development, we’ve helped dozens of brands improve their online presence – and can do the same for you.

Get in touch with our team to discuss how we can improve the digital appeal of your small business. Or explore more about our services for SBOs below:

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