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How Businesses Can Support the Green Economy

With the advent of global warming, increased drought, heat waves, and rising sea levels, climate change is on everybody’s mind. Climate change conferences like the UN’s COP 27 in Egypt are a stepping stone in the right direction in raising awareness. 

According to the United Nations environmental report, the pandemic and the war in Ukraine have intensified the effects of climate change and increased drought, poverty, and hunger. To mitigate the effects of climate change, businesses need to invest in a green economy.

What is a Green Economy?
A green economy fosters improved human well-being and social equity while reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities. Its goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote efficient eco-friendly production processes. 

With all that’s happening in the world today, many organizations are realizing that they can not choose between the environment and economy — they need both. What can they do to actively promote environmental commitment and support the green economy? Consider a few ways.

Reduce Energy and Resources
Efficient use of energy can provide large economic and environmental gains. Just think of how much energy you could conserve if you printed less paper or turned off computers and lights when not in use at the office. Small changes can have a big impact on larger energy use; they can also save money in the long run. 

Host Virtual Meetings
Virtual meetings with clients and businesses reduce carbon emissions considerably. Instead of flying to meet a client or host a conference, host it virtually. A recent environmental study revealed that shifting conferences from meeting halls to online platforms can reduce the carbon footprint by 94 per cent and energy use by 90 per cent. 

Produce Eco Friendly Products
If you manufacture or design products, review the carbon footprint of your materials (i.e. packaging, delivery methods and end-of-life disposal or reuse). Investing in eco-friendly products saves energy. Eco-friendly products are a great alternative for non-renewable resources like fossil fuels as they emit less pollution and improve the air quality. 

Embrace Technology
Producing electricity through solar panels and wind turbines has a positive impact on the environment. It enables energy to be captured naturally and used. You can also install devices to monitor energy use at the office. You can set lights and air conditioning or heating units to turn off automatically or at a specific time to conserve energy.

Engage Your Staff
Provide training programs at the office to raise awareness on environmental challenges and encourage behavioural changes. Let your employees know that they have valuable ideas and listen to their priorities, interests, and concerns by starting open conversations with them during lunch or company meetings. 

The advantages of investing in a green economy are innumerable. Besides cutting costs and reducing the carbon footprint on the environment, they create healthier, happier workplaces and improve your company’s reputation.

David Messiha | Staff Writer

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