Do you want to make your company more sustainable? Maybe you've recently decided to take a more eco-friendly approach in the way you do business. Nowadays, there are so many sustainable solutions to our daily business needs and here are a few steps to get you started.
Finance:
According to business news daily,
“Green finance focuses on supporting local, community-level projects with an emphasis on sustainable, ecologically friendly agriculture.”
In layman's terms, this means you should be treating your finances the same way you treat any other eco-friendly concepts. Focusing on green finance means supporting local endeavors and being savvy with your banking.
Taking the time to do research on the "reputation" of your bank goes a long way in the eco-business world. It may be a bit more work, but being conscious of this sets you apart. You are choosing to be a conscious consumer. This shows a level of integrity that creates trust between the client and your business.
For this reason, we are proud to support local credit unions, which are actually owned and fully supported by their members. Check out your local credit unions and see if its the right option for you!
Supporting Local
When we shop small, it creates a trickle down effect. We support our local businesses, which creates a more centralized, circular economy. This helps us build deeper relationships, and these relationships create strong connections, within your community.
These connections can show others about the importance of having a more sustainable business model. The goal is to create a community that can support itself, that is one major aspect of economic sustainability.
This is a great way to connect with your surrounding community. Supporting small, locally owned businesses promotes the prospect of a circular economy and allows for a sustainable foundation in your business. (check out the four part blog series on sustainable living).
We know that shopping small for individual needs is important in supporting the local economy, but did you know you can take that support even farther by collaborating with a local business/company?
1. You can hire them to cater a business meeting,
2. You can host small business meetings on their patio,
3. You can buy your business goods from local shops (instead of having them flown in)
Most local business have a more transparent approach in how they operate behind the scenes, and working with them allows for a trusting relationship to build over time.
Support a nonprofit or charity:
This is another great way to give back to your community. Do some research on the local charities in your area and figure out if there’s any way you can support them through your business. Community is important, especially during theses times. How can you help create a better environment where you do your business?
PlanIt has a nonprofit called Kahana Foundation, which provides environmental education and change through media and social media. We also love to work with and support other local nonprofits like Kokua Foundation and Blue Planet Foundation. Are there any eco-conscious charities you can or do support? Whether that be by volunteer hours or even donations.
Packaging:
What is your product packaging like? If you have a business that relies heavily on shipping your items, it is a great idea to look at all of your options when it comes to packaging, especially if you are trying to reduce your environmental impact. In this day and age, there are so many options for packaging that are more sustainable!
It may seem daunting at first, but because the demand for eco-friendly products is rising, it is actually the best time to start reviewing your options! There are so many sustainable alternatives that are still affordable. It just takes a little research but trust, if you make the switch to more eco-friendly products it will only amplify your business.
If you want more information on how to start having more sustainable packaging, check out this post!
In Conclusion:
These are some simple ways to get your eco-conscious business thriving. The great thing about going more sustainable is that it only improves your business. Alongside your eco-improvements, you are helping to create a better environment for future generations. That in itself is one of the best things a company can do for its community.
