With all the talk of becoming “carbon neutral,” there are many Green business initiatives that are helping companies in their efforts to become sustainable and leave little or no carbon footprint. What can you do to promote a healthier environment and limit your consumption of energy and materials?
Biodiesel
Though not new, biodiesel fuel is growing in popularity. Biodiesel is formed through a chemical process from used vegetable oil. It is cheap to produce, burns cleanly because it uses no petroleum, and is an abundant source of alternative fuel.
Choose to purchase company vehicles with biodiesel compatible engines. Even regular diesel engines are easily modified to use biodiesel fuel. Using biodiesel is a great way to reduce harmful emissions and do your part to save the environment.
Green Energy Certificates
Most electricity is produced through fossil fuel burning, which creates a great amount of pollution and power plant emissions. However, most energy companies promote alternative green energy, such as hydropower, solar, and wind energy.
Until the entire national electrical “grid” system goes completely green, or you have your own wind or solar generator, you will still be using fossil fuel energy from the grid. You can offset your carbon usage, however, through the purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates (REC). RECs show your dedication to promoting low-carbon energy technologies such as wind and solar energy.
Recycling Program
It is easy to form a recycling program as a green business initiative. Many businesses already recycle paper, but you could recycle many more materials such as:
- Glass
- Plastic containers
- Redeemable beverage containers
- Cardboard
- Scrap metal
- Computers and electronic equipment
Develop a recycling program to collect all these types of materials and deliver or have them picked up by recycling agencies in your area. You could even collect redeemable beverage containers and form a donation program for your local schools or other non-profit charities.
Biodegradable Packaging
Another way you can promote sustainability and carbon neutrality is by developing packaging that is completely biodegradable. Plastics, Styrofoam, and other popular packaging materials are an environmental nightmare. Instead, look to new forms of packaging that include recyclable paper and cardboard, as well as other packaging made from renewable resources, such as plant-based material. The key is to avoid packaging that contains plastics, plastic coatings, or other harmful chemicals.
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Another source of green business ideas is through the use of green cleaning products. Avoid using agents that use harmful and toxic chemicals. There are now many eco-friendly solutions available for use with laundry, grease, stains, and other heavy-duty industrial cleaning jobs. Whether you are just cleaning your office, your restaurant kitchen facility, or a manufacturing plant, green products are a great solution to save on toxic waste. You can even now hire green-certified commercial cleaning companies to keep your office sparkling and eco-friendly.
Green business ideas and green business initiatives are quickly becoming a normal part of everyday business. Determine your green policy and start doing your part to create a “carbon-neutral” business.
