You probably know why going green is good for the planet, but did you know that it is good for your small business too? I’ll outline the three major ways that running an environmentally friendly business will translate to a better bottom line.

1.) Ecoefficiency Means Cost Savings The first major change you’ll see when you go green is that your expenses will shrink as your carbon footprint does. A company that has an environmentally aware mindset will use less resources to get the same work done, and that sort of efficiency can slash expenditures. Using compact florescent lightbulbs, for example, will greatly reduce your electric bill. Keeping in mind the toll paper products has on our rainforests will move you to cut down on unnecessary shipping materials, which also means you spend less. The lesson here is that you should use less, for the environment and for your bank account.

2.) Green Pride!

When you nurture a workplace environment that is concerned with the health of its community and the planet, you and your employees know that you are working for something more than just a pay check. That sort of sense of purpose makes the work your employees do feel important, and it is! When people are motivated by socially conscious and just goals, they are going to work harder and be happier while they do it. It has been shown that environmentally benign companies have reduced rates of absenteeism, increased job satisfaction, and commitment to the company’s mission. A proud employee is a productive one!

3.) Customer Good Will

One of the major advantages that very small businesses need to leverage if they want to regain a prominent place in the American marketplace is a sense of belonging to the community. Faceless behemoths like Wal*Mart are disliked by so many is because it is obvious how little they care for the places they operate. You and your business can stand out if you make an effort to make things better, and going green is a vital part of that. When you use recycled materials, call your customers’ attention to it. Promote green discounts for people who bring their own reusable shopping bags. Use locally grown, organic produce (not only are these better for the planet, but they are better for the people eating them too!). The possibilities are endless, so get creative. Go green and your community will thank you with increased business.

Peter Grantaire is a small business owner and blogger who writes about the challenges that small businesses face, as well as the joy of contributing to your community through your work.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Grantaire

For a list of “green businesses” in Orange County, click here

In today’s world, more and more people are becoming more conscious of their environment. As a result, more businesses are adopting environmentally friendly business practices, like becoming a sustainable, green business. However, even with all the advantages of going green, there are many business owners who find it hard to adopt green practices because of the costs needed to implement changes, such as reconstruction to their daily operations and alterations to products sold to the consumers.

What many don’t realize is that the benefits of green practices far outweigh the costs. Becoming a sustainable business can save money in the long run, create happier customers, and it contributes to a healthier planet.

If you’re interested in adopting green practices, the government Web site, http://www.Business.gov, provides a guide to help businesses adopt the green practices, listed below:

Follow the environmental regulations relevant to your business. Compliance creates two effects: it protects your business from fines and legal actions from the government and it protects the environment.

Create a sound environmental management plan. Since you are now running a green business, creating an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient workplace is important to send your message across. An environmental plan will help you achieve this.

Build green and install energy-efficient air-conditioning systems, appliances, etc. You can contract with an energy professional to help you manage your project.

Buy green products. Green products are made from recycled materials, non-toxic, renewable, and recyclable. Also buy food that is locally grown and organic.

Adopt energy-efficient practices. One of the most effective steps you can take to cut costs is to save energy. You can help your employees conserve energy by providing them with energy-saving tips.

Reduce, reuse, and recycle wastes. Money can be saved by reducing waste. You can also cut costs on raw materials, office supplies, and equipment. Some of the things that you can do to reduce waste are using recycled products, eliminating excessive product packaging material, and participating in recycling programs.

Conserve water. Through conservation, you both save water and cut costs associated with buying, heating, treating, and disposing of it. Try to use water-saving equipment, and minimize discharges to sewer or wastewater.

Learn how Home at Last in OC has “gone green”.  Click Here!