Many entrepreneurs are becoming interested in running their operations using “greener” methods to help reduce waste and pollution that impacts the environment. A few simple changes in protocol can have a big impact on the amount of waste and pollutants that are produced each year for the average company. In addition, businesses can enjoy beneficial PR effects from these efforts to join community efforts to be more environmentally responsible.

1. Energy-Efficient Lighting

Updating the lighting in your office and factory area can help to save you hundreds of dollars in energy costs each year and can help to save the planet. New lighting is an investment that pays for itself in a short period of time. If you always use energy-saving bulbs for common lighting fixtures and install motion-sensing lights in storage areas that do not need lighting throughout the day, you will save even more on your yearly energy bills.

2. Recycle Paper

Supply recycling bins for employees to dispose of used paper throughout the day. When you purchase computer paper or other materials, select those made of recycled materials, which will help to reduce the amount of paper and other products that must be disposed of each year.

3. Reuse Furniture

Re-purpose office furniture to prevent early disposal into landfills. If you need some additional furniture for an expanded area of your office, look for slightly used products that are still serviceable that will help to reduce production effects that damage the environment.

4. Use Environmentally-Safe Cleaning Products

The products you use around your facility every day can have a significant impact on the health of the planet. Cleaning products, machine lubricants and aerosol sprays should contain environmentally friendly ingredients that do not negatively impact the air people breathe or the nearby water sources. If your business removes contaminants from liquids, make sure you use effective sanitary baskets strainers. If all businesses eliminated polluting chemicals from their processes, it would produce a dramatic improvement in air, water and soil quality in the community.

5. Encourage Alternative Transportation Methods

Forward-thinking companies are encouraging their employees to use public transportation, bicycle to work and carpool to help reduce auto emissions in their communities to help the planet. Employers can offer small incentives such as gift cards or movie tickets to promote this simple method of saving energy.

These 5 strategies will give your business a great start on becoming a greener, more sustainable company with forward-thinking strategies that help to preserve the planet. Becoming greener not only helps your bottom line. It also marks you as a participating member of the community that cares about a clean environment.