Some businesses don’t even realize how much waste they’re producing until they start to look for alternative ways of doing things and see the difference they could make. For this reason, more and more businesses are starting to recognize the impact that they have on the environment, and doing their part by reducing waste. 

Reducing the amount that your business creates can have a hugely positive effect on the world and can even reduce your costs in the process. In fact, many companies would be shocked to find that if they were to weigh their waste, that they are wasting more resources than they ever imagined. 

The great news is that it’s never too late to make positive changes in your business and reduce your carbon footprint.  If you’re ready to start making changes and reduce your waste production, then here are some of the best tips for you to consider. 

Take an Inventory  

The first step to making positive changes is to assess where your business is at. Take a look around and notice the areas of your business that seem to be producing the most waste. Try to establish where you can make the most positive changes, cut back on materials, or even switch to recyclable products instead. Taking a look around and evaluating what kind of changes can be made is the best way to create a plan. 

Ditch Bottled Water 

One of the biggest causes of pollution is due to the petroleum used to create plastic water bottles. Not only does drinking bottled water create more waste and damage to the planet, but it’s actually more expensive than tap water.  In many cases, doesn’t taste that much better. 

Rather than providing plastic water bottles for your company, consider making the switch to reusable bottles or glasses. Simply add a filter to your office’s drinking water source, and not only will you significantly reduce the amount of waste that your business produces, but you also cut back on a major expense. 

Ditch Paper  

Depending on what kind of business you have, you may use a considerable amount of paper. While you may not be able to eliminate the use of paper altogether, it’s possible to cut back. Try to find as many opportunities to go digital as possible. You may even want to consider creating a bit of friendly competition. Try to see which business department can cut back on the most amount of measured paper over the course of the month. Whoever wins gets a prize. An incentive can be a great motivating force to make positive changes. 

Rethink Packaging 

In the United States, packaging counts for a huge amount of produced waste. Rethinking the way that your business packages products can cut down on a considerable amount of waste.  Beyond rethinking your own packaging, you may also want to consider only buying from suppliers whose packaging is earth-conscious as well.