Going green has many and very profitable financial benefits for businesses.
Environmentally conscious establishments can save on utility costs by installing energy-efficient HVAC systems, touchless sinks, solar panels and a host of other energy-saving practices. While many will worry about their return on investment, over time business owners may see the win-win of both substantial cost efficiencies and greatly increased revenue.
Going green isn’t limited to these practices. There are ways to be more energy-efficient in all areas of your business, from warehouse operations and the manufacturing processes to recycling and repurposing obsolete equipment.
By embracing sustainability, you will attract customers who are impressed with your green philosophy. In fact, as consumers are growing more environmentally conscious, some may only patronize businesses that they consider ethical in truly caring about making the world a better place. There are websites that list recommended businesses for green-savvy shoppers. You want to be on that roster.
Even wildlife comes into play. Some companies choose to increase bird survival rates by installing special glass and other mechanisms that decrease bird strikes. Glass is invisible to birds. To prevent collisions, glass is embedded with patterns and designs that indicate a solid barrier. These proactive businesses can garner a new group of customers, including individual birders and organized groups like Audubon Societies.
All of these endeavors will lead to one of the best ways to boost business: retaining customers and attracting new, loyal shoppers through enthusiastic, positive reviews, and word-of-mouth. The word will be spread far and wide about your hard work on behalf of the planet.
Sustainability will also raise staff morale. Employees who feel proud about their company going green tend to be more productive. You will also be in a position to attract top talent who are seeking to join environmentally responsible organizations.
In addition, take initiatives to promote your eco-friendly bent through outreach to all forms of media. Send press releases to newspapers, post sustainability tips on social media that gain you followers.
If your business has not adopted Instagram, X, YouTube and other social platforms, do so ASAP. Getting in front of the public can invite collaborations and partnerships with social media influencers and others who can virtually introduce your business to hundreds or thousands of their own followers. Going viral is the ultimate word-of-mouth attraction to your business.
Don’t forget to participate in green fairs and community events to tout your philosophies and your products. You will both raise interest in and showcase your company’s public pride.
One of the major detriments of forgoing the green route is landing on regulatory committees’ naughty lists. Some new government business regulations are being drafted, or existing rules amended, that engender sustainability. Be sure to research regulations at every level of government. In addition, you could lose out on grants and other incentives available only to green businesses. Given the multitude of advantages to going green, every sustainable step that you take, no matter how small, is a stride toward success.
