Here are 5 ways to begin ‘greening’ up your business:
1. Get certified:
Regardless of your industry, there is probably a ‘green’ certification that you or your company can achieve. For example:
- Real Estate – Ecobroker designation, Green Designation (National Association of Realtors)
- Construction- Certified Green Building Professional
- Property Management- LEED AP
- Yoga Studio Owner- Green Yoga Association
- Schools- Green Schools Association
Getting certifed will give you 2 things: credibility and knowledge. It proves you’re not just ‘green-washing’ (faking it for the press/profit) and that you are committed to sustainability in your career/company/industry.
2. Take advantage of your rebates:
95% of the clients I meet with are not taking full advantage of the rebates available to them for their homes, businesses or companies. Some rebates may seem to good to be true ($5 rebate for a $4.50 sprinkler-head) but they do exist. check with your local utility and local water authority to make sure you take advantage of this. It’s free money.
3. Audit your business (or your home):
What areas could you make sustainable changes that would reduce your expenses and improve your health? Here’s a simple one for your home- don’t keep an alarm clock plugged in by your bed. The electromagnetic radio-waves could possibly damage your heart and brain according to several medical studies. If you must use one, use a battery powered clock. Saves money/electricity and improves your health.
4. Publish your efforts:
Regardless of your business size, let your customers know what green efforts you are pursuing. They will appreciate it and see your company in a more positive light. One of the best and easiest ways to do this is on a company blog. Very simple and informal communication to your clients, prospects and customers regarding your sustainable efforts can go a long way.
5. Don’t say you are a “green” company:
One of the worst things you can do is call your company green. Why? Because there is no such thing. It is more effective to say you are ‘pursuing green’ and constantly raising the bar. Saying your ‘green’ sounds arrogant and superior. ‘Pursuing green’ sounds like your making progress and going in the right direction. We’ve all seen ads of companies that call themselves green. I passed a truck recently on the high way that was spewing exhaust with ad that claimed their company was a green company. Somehow I don’t think they’re fooling anyone.
Jim Simcoe of ecoLife Consulting is an eco-consultant, green speaker, LEED consultant and Certified Green Building Professional with a background in green real estate. He consults with commercial property owners, builders, and businesses. Jim’s designations include: Certified Green Building Professional, EcoBroker, and Real Estate Broker.
