7 Green Business Resolutions for 2010





7 Green Business Resolutions for 2010Being an eco-conscious business is no longer just something that’s the right thing to do – it makes financial sense. Environmental policy and energy efficiency are priorities of the Obama administration, so businesses that don’t take voluntary steps to reduce their carbon footprints may face regulations later on. What’s more, consumers are demanding more sustainable practices from the companies they patronize.

New Year’s is perfect time to hone a game plan for the year ahead. Here are seven steps to get your business greener in 2010:

1. Write a sustainability plan. Put your environmental goals in writing, so you have a roadmap to follow throughout the year. Any plan should include a mission statement describing what you’re trying to achieve and set some attainable goals for the year ahead – along with descriptions of how you’ll achieve those goals. Find out more about sustainability planning here.

2. Focus on low- and no-cost first. Before you install solar panels, look for easy, affordable ways to cut waste. You may be surprised: Simple steps, such as setting energy-saving modes on office computers, installing motion sensors to control lights or writing an office recycling policy can generate big effects and savings at little cost.

3. Get an audit. Most utility companies offer their commercial customers energy audits for free or at little cost. An auditor can tell you how where your business uses the most energy and the expected financial payback of various upgrades, so you know where to target your precious dollars.

4. Track your progress. Keep tabs on the steps your taking and monitor how much money and waste or energy you’re saving. Not only will this provide great motivation (and bragging rights), but it will allow you to see whether your sustainability plan is working. You might, for instance, track your monthly energy bills or track your carbon savings.

5. Find financial incentives. States and cities are suppose to use some of their federal stimulus dollars toward energy-conservation projects and many are rolling out grants and other financial incentives for businesses making energy-efficiency improvements. Also, many utilities already offer rebates and low-interest loans to business customers making energy upgrades, such as installing high-efficiency lights, or installing renewable power sources. Don’t overlook these incentives and take advantage while you still can – they may not be around forever. You can find a list for incentives in your state here.

6. Mobilize your employees. The most successful environmental initiatives in the workplace are those that involve all employees, so think creatively about getting employees motivated to pitch in. Some businesses form “green” committees made up of employees, while others reward perks to employees who take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

7. Make it fun. Keeping your business on track with its sustainability plan will require persistence. But you’ll boost the odds if you make it fun and interesting. You might have competitions in the office to see who can reduce the most waste or host a regular educational series on environmental topics.

11 Comments ▼

Kelly Spors Kelly Spors is a former small-business and entrepreneurship reporter and blogger for The Wall Street Journal who has also written for Yahoo!, Entrepreneur, NFIB's MyBusiness magazine and The New York Times. Kelly is now a freelance editor and writer based in Minneapolis and has previously managed communications for an environmental non-profit that helps businesses find ways to be greener.

11 Reactions
  1. These are good tips. When I first read the headline I was thinking it was about going green..haha

    I have been working on some cool “green” products.

    Jim

    “I sell Money…you want some” Huh??

  2. Salihu Abdulbasid

    I will like you to help me host Akarami.com.
    As we use to say collecting data is only the first step toward wisdom but shearing data is only the first step toward community.
    Shere what you can to benefit others.

  3. Salihu Abdulbasid

    Collecting data is only the first step toward wisdom but shearing data is only the first step toward community.
    Shere what you can to benefit others.

  4. Absolutely awesome post.

    I love visiting your blog because everytime I do I just know that there will be top quality information for me to read

    Mark

  5. Are there any ISPs out there that provide “greener” internet? Given the amount of time we’re on the internet that could be helpful.

  6. Also ask employees to bring their own utensils and mugs, don’t buy plastic anymore.

    If every employee uses 1 spoon, fork and knife every working day, they’re throwing away an average of 750 plastic utensils in the garbage EVERY year!

    If your company has 100 employees, that’s 75,000!!!

  7. Thanks for some really great ideas about how to go ‘green.’ It can seem like an overwhelming task to try to become sustainable. You present some great, easy to implement ideas here.

  8. Good article. I’m with I Fill Inkjets in New York and refilling office inkjet cartridges saves money (about 1/2 the cost of new cartridges)and protects the environment (we’ve kept over 300,000 cartridges out of local landfills). It’s a small step that provides immediate savings, both financially and environmentally.

  9. It is so great to hear so many people looking into “going green” no matter in what method.

    My company sells safe and environmentally friendly products (over 350)that we use every day at a discount of 30-40%. If you would like more information, please call me at 520-298-7131, email me, or go to my website at http://www.Careermomsathome.com/ and complete the form.

    We are looking for customers and I am also looking for serious business partners who want to work from home for 5-20 hours a week and make a substantial income over time.

    Sandra Fatovich

  10. I’m with Simcoe Consulting and we are here to help businesses who have green aspirations.

    If you’re looking for somewhere or someone to help you get your business started in the green direction, check out http://www.jimsimcoe.com. You’ll be able to find great tips and ways to start as well as be able to sign up for a free 15 minute coaching call.

    He has also recently announced an event for green real estate investors of all levels and experience to take place in September.