If you’re a post pandemic small business owner or if you’ve been in operation for years, you know that making a profit has a lot to do with how you manage expenses. Utilities make up a big percentage of that and knowing the typical cost for businesses like yours will be critical to your success. Being environmentally conscience doesn’t just help the earth but can save your business money. Going green might seem more expensive at first, but the long-term savings are significant. If you want to do your part to save the planet and cut your bills down at the same time, check out these energy saving tips from the #GreenTeam!
ELECTRICITY
- Use energy efficient office equipment. When considering going green, invest in office appliances that include an ENERGYSTAR-rating. These products are proven to be eco-friendly, and if properly taken care of can save your business money in the long run.
- Conserve energy throughout the day. During closed hours and slower working hours, remember to shut off all lights and power down as many devices as possible to prevent Phantom energy.
- Drive electric! EV’s are becoming popular these days, investing in one can show your clients and community that your business is all about environmental consciousness. Taking it a step further, providing a charging station at your establishment can open doors for a whole new client base and stream of revenue.
- Change your lights. If your business still uses incandescent light bulbs, its time for a switch to LED lights.
WATER
- Install Low Flow Fixtures in bathroom and kitchen areas. Installing water-efficient fixtures such as waterless urinals, re-circulating hot-water system, and high-efficiency dishwashers can save money and improve hygiene.
- Monitor water temperature. Most hot water heaters are factory set to 140 degrees Fahrenheit but keeping that temperature between 110-120 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. According to the DOE “Set too high, or at 140ºF, your water heater can waste anywhere from $36 to $61 annually in standby heat losses and more than $400 in demand losses,” saveonenergy.com
- Educate and engage with your employees. The more people know, the more motivated they will be to stick with a plan. Every person on your team plays a role in water use. Social Media, Newsletters, company meetings will remind and entice your employees to be more sustainably conscience.
WASTE
- Get the right Garbage Carter. Some local private sanitation carters either do not recycle or don’t do it properly. Hiring a company such as Green Environmental Services can help with this, as we offer recycling and composting services.
- Organization is key. Label and color coordinate your garbage area. Having specific location for certain garbage can help distribute weigh overall. You can find printable garbage signs on our website. www.greenenvironyc.com
- Identify your waste. The best method for producing less trash, is to first establish what types of garbage you’re accumulating. Keep holidays, peak times, and inclement weather in mind. Those will be the days your trash either doubles or dwindles drastically.