With buyers becoming more aware than ever of the impact their choices have on the planet, it’s time to think about how your business can become more sustainable. Fear not, we’ve put together a 7-step process to help you on your way.

Step 1: Opt for green hosting

Easily overlooked, the web hosting industry has an enormous impact on the environment. As Scalify can attest, the sheer number of companies shifting towards online stores in the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic is growing ever larger and with that, the energy needs of web storage have increased.

Fortunately, there are now a growing number of web hosting solutions who offset their carbon emissions by over 100%.

Check to see if your hosting company has an environmental policy. If not, it might be worth considering switching to someone greener.

Step 2: Opt for sustainably sourced company attire

Production of clothing makes up 10% of all carbon emissions, dries up water sources, and pollutes streams and rivers.

That is why it’s so important that when you’re sourcing your company attire you should choose a sustainable option.

There are however, options out there for you.

Top tip: try to find companies who supply organic fabrics, recycled materials and low-impact dyes.

Step 3: Focus on recycling and going paperless

Astonishingly, paper, despite being widely recyclable, accounts for around 26% of total waste at landfills.

An easy way to sure up your company’s green credentials is to push for a paperless workplace. Use devices for note-taking in meetings change to eSignatures and like Scalify, offer electronic billing.

Step 4: Green energy implementation

With a combined 40% of greenhouse gas emissions, electricity and heating poses one of the biggest challenges to us when it comes to reaching net zero emissions.

Investment in green energy is at an all time high though and it’s very likely that you can now switch to a company offering greener energy.

A simple Google search with your location will likely bring you many options – sometimes at a cheaper price than your current deal!

Step 5: Tree-planting initiatives associated with sales

Tying in your economic activity with tree-planting initiatives is a great way to show your commitment to becoming a more sustainable company.

UK-based goBambu sells eco-friendly products and have recently opted to plant trees every month to offset their emissions. Not only does this make them more sustainable but they’ve also seen an increase in sales as a result.

Step 6: Be willing to educate employees

Talking to your employees and offering them guidance and resources so that they can become more sustainable in their daily lives is a great way to not only motivate staff but to attract the best talent.

You could give them a full guide or it could be something as small as encouraging them to use a reusable bamboo coffee cup during their coffee break for example.

Step 7: Encourage employees to use green transport

The final step towards sustainability in the workplace is by encouraging your employees to use the greenest way possible to get to work. Scalify offers remote working opportunities that not only cut carbon emissions but are a great motivator for current and potential staff. Other areas you can explore include cycle-to-work schemes and encouraging car-pooling for employees who live in the same area.

So there we have it – 7 steps towards becoming a more sustainable company. These steps will not only save the planet but if implemented, could give you a valuable USP over your competitors. Don’t forget to shout about your sustainable changes in your advertising campaigns – they’ll offer you a great way to gain new customers.