Lifestyle: Environmentally Conscious
The term “environmentally friendly” is a popular phrase in today’s culture. It is an ambiguous term which refers to laws, policies and guidelines claimed to inflict no or minimal harm on the environment. Running an environmentally conscious business helps reduce the impact a company makes on the environment, and also helps preserve natural resources. There are many different ways a business can help the environment. They can use products, such as solar hot water systems, that reduce the reliance on natural resources. Another way is by using products made from recycled material, such as office supplies made of recycled plastic. Lastly, reducing air travel by holding conference calls helps reduce the emission of carbon gases into the environment.
Advantages to Employees
Running an environmentally conscious business has many advantages for both employers and employees. It shows customers that you and your company care about the environment. This opens up a whole new area of new customers, as a growing percent of people will only support businesses that reduce their impact on the environment. While this helps the company, it also helps employees, particularly those in sales who work on commission. They can attract a wider ranger of consumer, and are more likely to make sales, increasing the amount of money the make. An environmentally conscious business also makes the workplace healthier. According to Green Business Bureau, a healthier workplace creates a 20 percent decrease in employee sick days. This benefits the company with less money paid out in medical benefits, but also benefits the employees, who are healthier. Some companies also cut costs by using telecommuting, allowing employees to work from home. This helps the environment by cutting down on carbon emissions caused by employees driving to work. This can make it much easier for employees to manage their home life, especially if they have a family with young children, eliminating the need for day care or a stay at home nanny, or for one spouse to not work.
Advantages to Employers
There are many advantages for employers who run an environmentally friendly business. For starters, green businesses attract the top talent. One of the top ten drivers of employee needs is the importance a firm places on social responsibility. People want to work for companies who are helping the environment, and by having an environmentally conscious company, employers can attract a wider range of applicants. Eco-friendly businesses also save a lot of money by reducing their costs through lower energy bills. For example, DuPont, a chemical manufacturer, saved over $3 billion over 20 years by reducing carbon emissions. For smaller businesses, simply turning off computers and lights that are not in use can help save costs. A 2009 economic stimulus plan provided various incentives for businesses to go green through the form of tax credits. Companies that implement environmentally friendly practices are eligible for these tax credits. Environmentally friendly practices also increase staff productivity. By getting employees involved with making the business environmentally friendly, it can motivate them and make them feel like part of a team. Lastly, utilizing environmentally friendly business practices in the end is better for the environment and world.
