As increasingly wild and unpredictable weather patterns wreak havoc all over the world, more and more people are taking in interest in climate change and mankind's impact upon the environment. This not only means that running a greener company is environmentally responsible, but also that it makes sound Business sense. There are many ways that you can reduce the environmental impact of your organisations activities, from eliminating unnecessary travel to using a greener booklet printing company. The key is to take an organised and comprehensive approach. These ideas will get you moving in the right direction.

Minimise unnecessary travel

Travel is a significant cause of environmental pollution and business is major contributor in this area. Analyse your travel habits and those of your Staff. Is it all really necessary? Sometimes of course you need to meet with someone face to face, but often people do it simply out of habit or convention. Where possible, make use of alternative means of sharing ideas, such as virtual conferencing and save the travel for when it is absolutely vital.

Consider Work From Home arrangements

Travel while at work is of course only part of the story. Every day huge amounts of energy are used, and pollution created, as all your staff commute to and from the office. Increasingly people are seeking out flexible work arrangements such as working from home, either part or full time. If you are open to such ideas, not only will you improve company morale by helping your employees to find a better work/life balance, but you will also be reducing the impact your business has on the environment. It is a win-win situation.

Encourage your staff to contribute

If your new greener approach to business is going to be successful, you will need to have your staff on board, as they are the ones who will have to implement the new regime. It is a good idea, therefore, to encourage your employees to contribute ideas and to take ownership of the scheme. Being an environmentally friendly organisation is something to be proud of and if your staff feel that they are responsible for the success of this new approach, they are far more likely to get behind it.

Tackle printing

Paper and ink are used in huge quantities in business, so how you deal with them is pivotal to the success of your environmental initiative. As well as considering how you deal with in house paper usage and printing, it is important also to consider materials that are produced for you externally. Choosing a company that has green options for things like booklet and business card printing shows your commitment and will enhance your environmental credentials.

Create and implement an environmental policy

There are many different ways to reduce the environmental impact of your business and it can be very easy to concentrate on some and completely forget about others. A systematic approach is a good idea therefore. Creating and implementing an environmental policy that covers all aspects of your business and its operations will ensure that you don't leave any obvious gaps and that every employee knows their responsibilities.