All over the world, companies are feeling pressure from customers, investors, and politicians to act more sustainably. This applies not only to large corporations but also to smaller companies. Every company can and must make a contribution so that we can meet our climate targets. Climate protection is no longer an option for companies, but a must. Those who reduce or compensate CO2 now show willingness to curb the climate catastrophe - and this is urgently necessary.
Regardless of the size of a company, there has never been a more important time than now to seriously address the issue of sustainability. Heat waves, landslides, forest fires - the climate catastrophe is being felt worse and worse. Taking environmentally friendly measures in a company does not always have to be expensive - sometimes it is as simple as making a contribution. HELIOZ presented simple tips and tricks on how to include sustainability in everyday business.
#1: Proper cooling/heating
In Austria, about one third of carbon emissions are caused by buildings. In the office, emissions are consumed through electricity and gas. Here it pays to pay attention to building insulation and the right windows. Invest in the right curtains instead of running the air conditioning continuously. When the air conditioning is running, make sure all windows are closed and turn it off again in the evening. Even in winter, you don't have to heat the building to 23 degrees. Rather put on a sweater and reduce the heating to 20 degrees in the building - our environment and your finances will be happy at the current heating costs.
#2: Pay attention to electronic devices
Electronic devices used in businesses consume a lot of energy, which has an impact on the planet's environment. Old appliances should be replaced with new ones that are more environmentally friendly and promote sustainable energy. For example, one can use compact fluorescent lamps or LED lamps, which have an impact on overall sustainability. These lamps are slightly more expensive than conventional ones, but they last longer and also consume much less energy, and have a much better return on investment. Even with the rising price of electricity, the new lamps will pay for themselves - they are easy on the wallet and on the planet.
#3: Avoid paper wherever and whenever possible
In a business, paper is a fairly ubiquitous part of the daily routine. However, you should try to avoid paper wherever you can, for example in meetings, presentations, or newsletters. There are enough electronic alternatives out there. Of course, there are also situations in which the use of paper cannot be completely avoided, such as flyers or brochures. In this case, please use recyclable paper to not further contribute to deforestation. Just look out for it the next time you order, it's worth it.
#4: Environmentally friendly travel
The pandemic has shown us: Not all business trips are actually necessary and video conferences are an effective alternative to them. So instead of traveling, you can use Skype, Zoom and co., choose public transport over driving or taking a taxi, and take trains instead of planes. You save money, time and CO2 - an absolute win-win situation.
#5: Sustainable food choices
Food is responsible for 70% of global biodiversity loss and about a third of global emissions. At corporate events, such as meetings or conferences, it would take very little effort to ensure that at least 50% of the food served is vegetarian or vegan. The best thing is to set a clear signal and do without meat altogether, the young generation will notice it positively. And this is where you have to stand out in order to attract the best young talent.
#6: Plants
Investing in office plants can create a calmer and happier environment as well as increase productivity. Plants can perform a useful function by absorbing toxins from the air, plus they look beautiful and make us all much happier!
#7: Show investment
Anyone who has calculated their carbon footprint knows how many of our emissions are already easily avoidable. For those emissions that cannot be reduced at the moment, however, CO2 offsetting is a medium-term solution to achieve a good environmental balance. However, look for a trustworthy provider so that your money really does go to sustainable projects. Look where the company is based, what standards it is certified to, what the idea behind it is. It is best to buy directly from the project processor so that your money for the purchased certificates really goes into impact projects and not into trade.