Go Green – Ideas for Businesses

A reader writes….

I’m in charge of my company’s “Go Green” initiative… do you have any ideas or suggestions on ways I can get employees on board?

 

Dear “Go Green,”

I applaud you for taking the lead on this very important initiative! There are a variety of things your organization can do; here are a few suggestions to help get you started:

Form a Committee – Select various employees to serve as “go green” ambassadors where they will lead certain initiatives that help the environment.  Gather as a group on a regular basis to brainstorm ideas such as:

• Recycling paper in the copy machine
• Turning off lights (in bathrooms, conference rooms, etc.) when not in use
• Encouraging carpools or the use of alternate forms of transportation to work  
• Conserving water
• Reusing file folders and UPS envelopes, etc.
• The list can go on and on…

Establish a “Corporate Responsibility Day” – In addition to giving employees paid time off for sick days, personal days, and/or vacations, some businesses are also adding “Corporate Responsibility Days” into the mix.  This is a day where employees can do volunteer work during regular business hours – with the support and permission of their employer.

Add a page to your public website – You can emphasize your company’s involvement by featuring activities and events on your company website.  Have your marketing department create a logo… add photos… give it some pizzazz!

Support a charity – As a company, get involved with fund-raisers, spread the word to other business partners, and announce your contributions in a press release.

Evaluate how you’re currently running your business.  Do you issue paper invoices or can you go electronic?  Can you streamline process and files online? Are there other ways you can eliminate excess paperwork?

Hey readers, what are some other “go green” initiatives you or companies have done?
Details… Details!

Thanks,
Anita