It's always refreshing to find out that a business cares about the community and is doing its part to reduce waste and make the world a little bit better. As a small business owner, it's important that your clients and employees know that you are also creating a company that wants to leave the earth better than you found it. Beyond the usual "recycle excess paper" and "avoid printing" policies, what are some more serious steps you can take to improve the way your business affects the community? 

Energy Efficiency 

While electricity usage is inevitable regardless of what your business does, there are ways to reduce excess energy. You probably already have a motion-detected lighting system to save inside your building (which is a great step, kudos!), but what about your large-scale energy suckers? Think about swapping out old-fashioned machinery for more eco-friendly alternatives. This can mean items like: 

• Machinery for a shop, like industrial coating ovens, sandblasters, and spray booths 
• Appliances inside of a restaurant: Refrigerators and freezers, ovens and fans 
• Office equipment such as computers, monitors, and printers 

Though it can be an expensive endeavor, the money you will save is worth it in the end. Making large-scale changes little by little can be a great way to ease into your new equipment and get your staff used to it as well. Equipment that doesn't need to work as hard to function will consume less electricity in the long run. You can generally tell if an item is energy-efficient if it has been made with recycled materials, has the Energy Star logo on it, or has an auto-shutoff or sleep option.  

Local Connections 

One method of "going green" that you mightn't have considered is in regards to which suppliers you work with. We're all guilty of supporting The Man and buying from big-box stores; it's cheaper, after all, and so convenient. However, remember that a lot of those same big-box stores create unfair work conditions, treat employees poorly, or make other unethical decisions that affect people or the environment. Before deciding on a supplier for any part of your company — be it paper, fertilizer, or diamonds — familiarize yourself with their policies first. You might surprise yourself with what you learn and decide that you don't agree with their company culture at all. 

Consider business connections with local merchants instead of making a deal with the devil; after all, shopping locally keeps money flowing in the community. Deciding to sign on with Big Box (News - Alert) Mart is likely supporting the bigwigs at the top instead of the little guys like you, and could be supporting unethical conditions at the same time. 

Small Steps 

The world has a newfound respect for the concept of community and togetherness, and is starting to understand how important it is to work together in improving the world. Make your business one that helps to create better footprints than the ones left behind. Whether that's by using earth-friendly materials or working with your neighbor, take those small steps to make your business one you're proud to own.