When it comes to ongoing challenges that all businesses are facing, the ones that will impact us for generations to come, there are none more pressing than climate change. Over the last couple of years, it has been impossible to ignore the warnings from climate scientists, the devastating extreme weather events, and the soaring temperatures. We are all doing as much as we can in our personal lives, but for anyone who runs a business, this is an issue we need to tackle head-on.
Of course, it can sometimes feel like being sustainable is easier said than done. This is especially true now, as the cost-of-living crisis is forcing us to think carefully about additional expenses and look for cost-saving measures. However, there can be no doubt that this is an issue that cannot be ignored. If we do not act now, it may be too late. Moreover, we know that customers and clients are actively looking for low-carbon companies to do business with. Everyone wants to be a part of the solution, not the problem. If you run a landscape business, here are a few tips to help you.
Start Small With Your Office
Let’s start with the office, shall we? Whether you are an independent contractor working from a home office, or the manager of a company with a brick-and-mortar office building and staff around the country, there will always be small steps to take towards greater sustainability. Cutting down on the amount of paper and plastic you use is also a small step that makes a big difference. You could also look at upgrading your appliances and electronics. Newer machines will have a better energy efficiency rating which means that they create less waste, and they will also save you money on your bills.
Find the right Suppliers
As a landscape business, you regularly work with several business partners and suppliers. If you are looking to be more sustainable, you need to ensure that they are just as committed to this goal as you are. Reach out to your providers and partners to talk through their sustainability strategy and what measures they are taking to reduce their carbon footprint. When finding an aggregates supplier, you should look for a business committed to being a part of the solution in the years ahead. Hanson has a range of resources available that break down their plans for going net-zero on carbon, and you can find out more about aggregates here. They will work with you to find the perfect aggregates solution for your business.
Watch Your Water
So often, when we think about our sustainability, we think about the energy and the fossil fuels we use. To be clear, these are critical factors that we all need to be aware of. But if you run a landscape business, you must know that one of your biggest waste areas will be water. Look at whether smart controllers or other measures will help you monitor precisely how much water you use. Look at where your water is coming from and if you are working on the lawn or other projects involving greenery or turf, then talk to your customers about how smart irrigation systems could help them cut down on their water usage. Getting into better habits with these issues is a big part of building a better plan for sustainability, and every little helps.
Look At Local Initiatives
We all need to remember that being more sustainable does not begin and end with work. As a business, you are in the position to help support and raise the profiles of local green initiatives and charities. Look at the ones in your local area and explore partnership opportunities. This will also help you cement your reputation as a business committed to sustainability.
Get Your Employees Involved
One of the most important things to remember is that you are not the only one in your business looking for more sustainable ways. One of the best things you can do as a leader is to get your team members involved in the sustainability mission. Consider what incentives you can offer staff to cut down their carbon footprint, such as subsidizing public transport costs to encourage them to give up their cars or introducing a cycle-to-work scheme. Air pollution is a massive issue in the UK, particularly in cities like London. You could also suggest team-building exercises that would include helping out local charities. Encourage your team to come to you with their ideas.
Leave a Reply