Are you looking forward turn your business green with more sustainable options? Waste management is one of the crucial aspects of business that offers more eco-friendly opportunities. Waste management does not only reduce the chances of pollution and gas emission but also offers ample opportunities to lower the operational cost for every business. So, going green is not an eco-friendly option but budget-friendly too.
Here is a complete guide to implementing sustainable waste management in your business.
Audit of total waste
In order to find out the best solution for your business, a waste audit is necessary to churn out crucial data. The waste audit helps to find out what kinds of trash and in how much quantity it is being produced at regular time intervals. You can make a weekly audit to understand where you are spending too much and if there is any room for improvement.
Reduce the use of paper and ink
One of the biggest wastes of every business and organization is paper and ink. While it is nearly impossible to avoid the use of paper in the office, you can always cut down the amount of usage. Here are some ideas to implement your reduction effort.
Try to go paperless as much as you can by virtually sharing servers with common access for everyone.
Print only when it is necessary. Even if you have to print, make sure you use both sides of a paper sheet.
- Try to print in the draft mode which will help reduce the ink consumption
- Use hand dryers in the washroom instead of paper towels
- Reusable options in the break room and pantry
Many regularly used elements in a workplace can be reused based on food and drinks.
- Utilize reusable water bottles and coffee mugs instead of disposable cups
- Avoid plasticware and disposable plates by using Tupperware and utensils.
Perks of donating
It is not a convenient option to throw away the excess items as it only increases the amount of waste. Instead, you can donate them to the needy ones who can utilize the items. In return, you will be able to get tax incentives and positive brand awareness for your philanthropic deeds.
- Hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, etc can donate their extra food to the food banks which are perishable and already prepared.
- The hotels can also donate shampoo, soaps, skin care products, and other toiletries which are excess
- If it is a workplace and looking for renovation or upgrade, the company can donate their old computer, printers, coffee machine, and other electronics
Recycle, if you can’t reduce
Recycling is one of the best options that help to save energy, keep waste out of dump yards, and also help to get raw material to create new items. This is one of the best ways to conserve energy and increase the number of resources. You can bring different bins for recyclable paper, glass, and plastic products. Here are some convenient green disposal options,
- Hotel key cards and gift cards can be recycled
- Restaurants can send their wine corks to repurpose them
- The cosmetic industry and salons can send their empty containers to other brands to recycle
Create Composts
You can create compost from green waste disposals such as food waste and paper-based products. A great place to implement this idea would be the cafeterias and break rooms where most green waste can be stored. You can buy a tightly sealed bin to not let leak any odor or bring any flies to the area. The compostable bags will help you transfer the compost safely to the dumpsite.
These proven methods of waste management can help your business go green quite easily while creating a better environment for all. Do not just implement ideas but also encourage your employees to carry them forward. You can offer an incentive or gift cards by setting a target. Considering the global situation, perhaps this is the best time to turn your business more green and sustainable.
