As climate change continues to be a major social and environmental issue, people are becoming more conscious of the products and services they consume and use on a daily basis. Known as green consumerism, consumers today are seeking products and services that have undergone an eco-friendly manufacturing process or one that recycles the planet’s resources and protects the environment.
Most businesses have already taken steps to reduce their environmental impact, such as installing solar PV systems on their roofs, but many more are still unable to do so due to misconceptions or limitations. Businesses have great influence and power to make changes, and they can have a big impact on the environment simply by making little adjustments to their operations. Here’s a rundown of some of the things you can do to make your company more sustainable.
1. Set green targets
Setting realistic green targets for the immediate and long term gives you and your employees a clear understanding of what your company needs to do to be more environmentally friendly. Going green allows you to innovate and develop better products and services for a target market with shifting values and ideals, allowing you to stay relevant in an ever-changing world. Ensure that you stay updated on the most recent scientific research on climate change in order to make the best decisions for your company and the environment.
2. Use renewable energy
Businesses, depending on their industry, produce a significant amount of carbon emissions due to their energy usage. One of the simplest methods to operate sustainably is to reduce your energy use and switch to renewable energy sources.
Solar energy is the renewable energy source with the greatest deployment potential in Singapore. It’s also a cost-effective option that can potentially increase savings in the long run. Solar leasing options and financing schemes such as the Power Purchase Agreement and Solar Roof Rental Scheme allow businesses in Singapore to quickly adopt solar energy with no upfront investment costs.
3. Adopt a circular economy approach
A circular economy seeks to reduce waste produced. Businesses adopting the circular economy approach will usually reduce waste by recovering resources at the end of a product’s lifecycle and repurposing them to reduce their impact on the environment.
Other simple solutions include going digital to limit your use of paper, recycling the devices and gadgets you own, purchasing recycled paper for use, and using sustainable materials in all your products, packaging, and marketing.
4. Adopt sustainable practices
Encouraging yourself and your employees to adopt sustainable practices at the office and even in their personal life can have a big impact on the environment. Some practices you can adopt include
- Using eco-friendly products, such as reusable utensils, energy-efficient appliances, and going paperless in the office
- Build a sustainable workspace by adding real plants and using natural materials such as sustainably-sourced wooden furniture
- Commit to long-term sustainable partnerships with other green businesses
- Keep track of your sustainability efforts and encourage your employees to make green choices for the business
As more consumers become environmentally conscious, sustainable practices will benefit your business in the long run. Switching to solar energy as a business today with our solar leasing options is a great way to start going green.
Union Solar is a solar company in Singapore that operates a network of solar PV systems powering organisations like yours.
Our Power Purchase Agreement allows you to install solar PV systems on your property with no upfront costs, while our Solar Roof Rental Scheme allows you to monetise your roof space to support large-scale renewable energy generation and contribute to the nation’s environmental goals. Get in touch with us to learn more.