A brighter business outlook through green initiatives.
On April 22, millions of people around the world will come together in recognition of Earth Day. And, with consumers putting an emphasis on green-friendly products and services, employees becoming more environmentally conscious, and new government regulations designed to promote more responsible workplaces, it is more important than ever for businesses to embrace the mission of Earth Day and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and the environment.
Indeed, going green is not an option anymore. It is a business imperative. And, to help your company maximize your efficiency while minimizing your footprint, Ajilon Professional Staffing offers a few tips for you to make your office more environmentally – and budget – friendly on Earth Day and throughout the year:
Work electronically first and foremost.
Make use of e-mail instead of regular mail, electronic records instead of expansive retention boxes and web-based manuals in place of cumbersome printed handbooks. These are all great ways to enhance efficiency, reduce the amount of paper, ink and toner your company uses, and decrease the amount you spend on supplies.
Allow employees to work remotely.
When schedules allow, consider letting your employees work from home. This will help cut down on carbon emissions from your commuting workforce and, with more lights and computers turned off, will lessen energy consumption in your office. Plus, studies have shown that working remotely can improve employee morale and productivity, which can translate into better results for your bottom line.
Organize a green committee.
Bring coworkers together as a group to provide creative ideas on how your organization can establish or enhance its environmentally friendly practices. Passionate employees have a lot to offer and can help bring concepts into practice. This is also a great way to promote camaraderie and teamwork in the office.
Ask employees to pitch in.
Encourage employees to bring ceramic coffee mugs to work rather than purchasing foam or paper cups. Set up recycling bins next to trash cans. Place carpool sign-up sheets in the break room. Empowering your employees is a great way to inspire them to make a difference.
Change the flow of water consumption.
Replace water coolers with water filtration devices on your faucets. Your employees will still get safe, clean drinking water and you can keep the cost of expensive, recurring water delivery from spilling over into your profits.
Empower others with technology.
When it’s time to refresh your office equipment – computers, printers, fax machines, etc. – don’t throw out your old stuff. Instead, keep your equipment out of landfills by donating to local schools, charities, hospitals, small businesses and other organizations that can put it to good use.
Create a breath of fresh air.
Plant trees on your company's campus – as many as you can – to help create fresh air, and a fresh look, around the office. A positive change in office aesthetics can result in a positive change in worker performance. And new greenery is typically more affordable than new desks or cubicles.
Purchase “green” promotional items.
Instead of common promotional giveaways, consider presenting customers with items that are good for the environment, such as reusable grocery bags with a company logo or USB drives rather than printed presentations. You’ll raise your brand awareness while conveying your commitment to the environment.
For more information on how Ajilon Professional Staffing can provide you with the insight and talent you need to grow your team, create sustainable success and build a better workplace environment, please contact your local Ajilon representative today.