How to create a greener and more sustainable business.

Businesses and consumers are turning more and more towards greener, sustainable practices. Businesses are looking to make a positive contribution to the environment and minimise their carbon footprint. Consumers on the other hand are increasingly researching and supporting companies that align with their own ethics and values. Therefore, many people are changing their buying habits by going green. Research from the Capterra 2021 Sustainability Survey shows:

76% of consumers check if products are sustainable before buying.
38% of Aussies are willing to pay 10% more for sustainable products compared to non-sustainable products
Since the pandemic, 48% of Aussies want to be more conscious and introduce more sustainable products into their purchases.
88% of consumers will be more loyal to a company that supports social or environmental issues.

Your business can’t just flick a switch and become more sustainable, so here are 5 quick tips that will assist in guiding you down the right path:

1 – The 3 R’s

Companies should endeavour to reduce usage where they can. Instead of disposable cups, plates and utensils (not to mention coffee pods), they can opt for real glass and ceramic alternatives. Reuse items whenever possible and when reducing and reusing aren’t possible, recycling is the next best thing.

2 – Recycle your old electronics and use less paper

Old printers, phones and laptops can often be found lying around the office – along with a huge tangle of cables. Tidy up your space and help the environment by finding your local e-cycling/ecowaste/e-waste center and making the most of your outdated electronics.

Embrace digital technology to cut your use of paper; switch to an electronic signing service so you no longer need to print and scan contracts or financial documents. Your business should also utilise cloud management systems that secure your documents, eliminating the need for hard copy documents.

3 – Offset your carbon footprint

Businesses can use a variety of carbon marketplaces to both calculate and offset their emissions. When choosing, it’s important to search for third-party certification and the projects the investments are made in.

Here are a few reputable carbon offset organisations to start the carbon neutral journey with:

Cool Effect, Terrapass, South Pole, Native Energy

4 – Offer remote work or encourage public transport

As more workplaces shift to a hybrid or full-time work-from-home arrangements, the environment benefits. Fewer cars on the road, idling in traffic, equates to less carbon dioxide (CO2) being emitted into the air.

When employees do need to be in the office, how their commute contributes to greenhouse gas emissions still can be influenced. Public transportation is the greenest way to commute, and companies can encourage employees to take advantage of these transport options.

5 – Support environmental causes

Community-driven programs are good for your image and public reputation, and it feels good to support something that makes a difference.

Adopt a green cause and do an annual fundraising event or volunteering day. There are all sorts of conservation campaigns you can take part in; find one that’s close to your heart and involve your employees and customers.

The team at MKS Group has moved to become as paperless as possible. Our team has eliminated any disposable items such as coffee cups, paper plates, etc from our workplace. Our management team are working with the building owner to investigate green power into the building and installing sensors where possible to reduce the amount of power used. These are just a few things that can be done quickly and easily to become greener.

At MKS Group, we can assist with making your business financially sustainable as you focus on being environmentally sustainable. Regardless of what phase your business is in we can help you secure sustainable business growth. Contact us to find out how…

(03) 9374 8400