Save Money by Going Green

Going green doesn't have to mean shelling out big bucks for major renovations around the shop. In fact, switching to environmentally friendly products can actually save you money. Here are a few places to start.

1. Buy reusable mugs and glasses instead of paper cups. The fact that disposable cups take up more than their fair share of our nation's landfills isn't the only reason to consider buying a couple sets of glasses and mugs instead. You can buy a set of coffee mugs in the price range of $20, whereas a pack of 50 disposable insulated cups will be in the $10 range. Eliminating disposable cups and plates can add up to big savings over time. Just be sure to spring for a dish rack, soap and sponges, and remind employees to clean up after themselves.

2. Switch to compact fluorescent lights. CFLs use up to 75% less energy and can last up to eight years. While they are more expensive than regular bulbs, CFLs clearly save you money in the long run. They are also available in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can even green up your favorite desk lamp.

3. Turn off computers. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/appliances/index.cfm/mytopic=10070, computer monitors should be shut off if employees are away from their computers for more than 20 minutes, and shut down completely for more than two hours of planned inactivity. This will save you money in two ways: lower energy costs and less wear and tear on computers, which eventually leads to costly repairs and new purchases.

4. Buy Energy Star products. Speaking of buying new products, make sure to replace old and broken equipment with energy efficient models. Look for the Energy Star label on products such as new printers and refrigerators: http://www.energy.gov/energyefficiency/energystar.htm. While these won't likely be the cheapest models you can find, they will save you money through energy savings and longer product life spans.

5. Ask traveling employees to carpool. Consider starting an incentives program to encourage employees to coordinate their commutes, thus helping the environment while they can save on travel expenses.

There are more ways you can save money by going green that are specific to your business. Consider a consultation with an Energy Auditor, who will show you more ways to save money and energy around the office, and ask associates for any cost-cutting greening tips.

– Courtesy of the National Federation of Independent Businesses. For more information on this topic, visit www.nfib.com.