Welcome to Zero Waste Week! This annual event – started in 2008 – is all about reducing waste and promoting sustainability, as well as getting people and businesses alike to take steps towards a greener future. You might wonder how you can join in and make a positive impact in your small business or job. In this blog post, we’ll explore eight simple sustainable business tips to help cut down on waste and create a more eco friendly workplace.
1. Refillable Cleaning Products for Cleaning the Workspace
Cleaning supplies can create a lot of waste, so think about areas where you can make the switch to refillable cleaning products. If you have a zero waste shop close by, take along your own containers and bottles, and top up on things like washing up liquid, window cleaner and more. Search zero waste shop directories online to find a shop near you. Alternatively, several brands and big supermarkets now offer cleaning tabs for products like surface cleaner – just pop them into an old spray bottle and add water! By refilling your cleaning solutions, you reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles and minimise your environmental footprint. Plus, it can save you money in the long run.
2. Buy Refurbished Equipment
When it comes to buying office equipment, such as printers, computers, or machinery for making products, think about refurbished options. Second hand equipment is not only much cheaper to buy but it reduces electronic waste and conserves valuable resources. Try sites like eBay where many high-street shops also sell display models at a discounted rate.
3. Second-Hand Office Furniture
Furnishing your office space with brand-new furniture isn’t always necessary. Why not choose second-hand or upcycled office furniture instead! You’ll give these items a second life while stopping perfectly usable furniture from ending up in landfills. Try charity shops and sites like Gumtree or Freecycle for second-hand pieces with a heavy discount (or even free in some cases).
4. Refillable Pens
Every year, over 10 billion plastic disposable pens are thrown away, and usually end up in landfill. Switch to refillable pens, which can be reused simply by replacing the ink. This small change can really add up and reduce your plastic waste over time. Alternatively, look for pen recycling programs such as those run by Terracycle.
5. Plastic-Free Packaging
If you post items out as part of your job or small business, zero waste week is the perfect time to think about how you can use more plastic-free packaging. Eco-friendly packaging not only appeals to environmentally-conscious consumers but also reduces the environmental impact of your business. Think recyclable cardboard, certified sustainable paper, paper bubble wrap, compostable paper tape, biodegradable materials, or reusable packaging solutions.
6. Donate Damaged Products
If you are a product-based business, instead of throwing out slightly damaged products, why not donate them to charities or local food banks. These organisations can often put these items to good use, helping those in need while reducing waste.
7. Seek Sustainable Swaps
Go through your product or service offerings to find opportunities for sustainable swaps. Can you use more eco-friendly materials for product packaging, offer plastic free alternatives to disposable items that you business uses regularly, or switch to more energy-efficient equipment? For example, our range of zero waste cosmetics come in plastic free packaging with refill options, like our natural dry shampoo powder. Small changes can have a big impact on your sustainability efforts.
8. Switch to Renewable Energy
Consider moving your small business on to renewable energy sources, like solar or wind power. Not only will this reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also lead to cost savings in the long term, as as these options become increasingly affordable.
Reducing waste as a small business is not only a responsible choice but also a smart one. Many of these sustainable business tips are easy to put in place, can save you money in the long run, and will appeal to eco minded customers. Creating a more eco friendly workplace is a great starting point for helping create a greener planet during Zero Waste Week and beyond.
