The hottest topics of the day encompass multiple environmental issues. Events like the recent COP26 see many nations outline their carbon reduction plans and ecological goals for the future. As a digital company or an individual, you can contribute to carbon reduction by converting to an eco-friendly online business. Sustainability consultants recognize constructive and robust methods of reaching carbon neutrality pollution reduction in various ways.
Sustainability Aware Partners
Of course, your carbon footprint extends beyond your personal environment. Everything involved in your daily life contributes to your carbon footprint. As a business, you need to think about your partners and their footprint. For example, your fulfilment centre may not operate with any sustainability goals. Therefore, you will indirectly contribute to a higher carbon footprint by using them. Research your partners’ sustainability mandate, and if they don’t have one, it might be time to switch to a partner who does.
Net Zero
You may have heard of Net Zero, but you aren’t entirely sure what it is. In a nutshell, it is the balance between carbon output and carbon removal. The aim is to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to a level closer to nature. As a business, do everything you can to reduce your carbon footprint, such as:
- Switch to reusable items like refillable ink cartridges
- Use only recycled and recyclable products
- Encourage seasonal foods and fewer meats
- Ban single-use plastics
- Switch to a green energy provider
- Consider an electric vehicle
- Use and encourage public transport, carpooling and cycling
Almost all countries and industries pledge carbon neutrality within the next couple of decades. But there is a long way to go, and it is only achievable if we all play our part.
Renewable Energy
As you probably know, we cannot rely on fossil fuels forever. Coal and gas are the primary sources of energy all over the world. Yet, they are a finite resource and highly polluting. Most nations pledge a shift towards clean energy. Clean and renewable energy comes from the sun, wind, hydroelectric dams and even nuclear power. You can switch to a clean energy provider to reduce your contribution to excess pollution and reduce your carbon footprint.
Paper Reduction
Microsoft founder Bill Gates is the mastermind behind the paperless office. The idea is that you don’t need to use paper at all as all communication is made electronically. Phone calls, email and collaboration apps make this easier. Yet, paper resources such as print mistakes, junk mail and bills account for 70% of office waste. This figure is far too high if you are serious about an eco-friendly office. Instead, use recycled paper and electronic communications where possible.
Energy-Efficient Features
Alongside a cleaner energy provider, you can significantly reduce your carbon output with energy-efficient devices. Energy-efficient devices use far less electricity. Fortunately, modern manufacturing techniques and national regulations require efficiency as part of a device’s design. To use efficiency features, you might need to set them in each device. Such features include auto-switch off laptops, power-saving sockets and standby modes.
