Ultimate Guide to Shifting Your Company into Eco-friendly Status

Julie Starr • November 3, 2021



Now more than ever, consumers are deeply researching their purchases. They want to make purchases from companies that are helping the environment, that are helping the world, not destroying it. A consumer cares and wants to know the values and ethics that a company has. Consumers are savvier more than ever, and this is only going to continue thanks to the web and the speed of widespread information. They’re actively seeking companies and products that align with their beliefs and that will want to be a part of the movement to help mother nature.

They’re willing to invest more money in products if it means that their families, loved ones, and the ecosystem can have a future on this planet. Today, businesses of all sizes are shifting towards sustainable practices. Customers are picking up on this and they have taken notice.  If you want to be one of the businesses that help save the Earth, then continue reading on how you can make both big and small changes in your company that can help the environment and allow you to gain more attention!

Look into saving energy

Looking into ways to save energy is one of the fundamental steps towards creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly business. Energy use can vary dramatically depending on the location, type, and size of a business. There are some simple ways to put a stop to this in your office such as switching all of your work to be remote (ditching the office), but there are also some other simple solutions that can be implemented as well:

  • Look into power management systems such as Energy Star
  • Switch your light bulbs
  • Bring in more direct light into the workspace
  • Use windows rather than AC in the summer months
  • Shut down all tech and lights after hours

While some of these may not be possible depending on the type of business and the type of work building (such as a store or office).

Take a look at your suppliers

Understandably, the cheapest route is going to be far more tempting but if you want to think about the environmental impact then keep in mind this may not be the best route. It may be time to look into your supply chain and possibly consider switching companies. This may help in clearing any efforts of exploitation (even if it’s not intentional).  Some questions you should ask yourself about your supplies should include “Are they fair-trade?”, “Are they sourced sustainably?”, “Are they made with recyclable or biodegradable materials?” or other questions that involve what type of product you’re needing for your business. This should also include your packaging materials. Consumers care about eco-friendly packaging so it’s best to begin looking into this as well.

Look into green delivery

If your business focuses more on retail or eCommerce, then this could be something to look into. Small businesses with a focus on sustainability tend to look into green delivery and green shipping methods. This can include logistic companies that have pick-up points, bike delivery drivers, or electric vehicles. This is one small way to reduce your business’s carbon footprint.  Some other tips for shipping and delivery can include:

  • Using as little paper as possible
  • Don’t put small packages into large boxes
  • Offer discounts on multiple orders
  • Look into cutting down on waste by having fewer boxes in the package

While it’s true many customers enjoy the unboxing experience, especially small business owners. It’s better to be as eco-friendly as possible and skip out on all the frills.

Use as little paper as possible

If you’re able to, try your best to switch the company into a paperless one. There is no need for sending out paper bills or invoices. The same can be said for documents. All of these can be used online and in digital format. There are special apps, websites, and software for sending out invoices. Internet banking is commonplace now. There are fillable PDF forms, so whenever you need signatures, this is a great alternative. Also, try to stop single-use paper. There isn’t a need for it, and this can even include toilet paper and paper towels as well.

Get your teammates onboard

Businesses create a lot of weight, far more waste than the average household.  Try to encourage everyone to begin recycling and reusing. This can be as simple as providing some recycling bins and a compost bin. There doesn’t need to be a lot of work. Encourage employees to bring in their lunch, encourage reusable containers. This can also include providing employees with a branded gift of a reusable shopping bag, water bottle, or even coffee cup. Other small ways to make a big impact can include:

  • Getting a rain collector
  • Switching to low-flow toilets and faucets
  • Discuss food waste in the workplace
  • Sell leftover cafeteria food
  • Encourage green initiative events such as a company cleanup
  • Encourage everyone to switch to sustainable commutes
  • Cut down on business trips

These are all small ways that you can help out in switching the lifestyle of your employees as well as the company culture as a whole.

Look into environmental certifications

Consumers are actively aware of business practices and they’re specifically wanting to purchase from companies that have the right certifications. It’s best to obtain a green business certification or some other type of sustainably-related certification. This shows your commitment to the environment and it’s also a way to get recognition from customers as well. Some examples can include:

There are plenty of other certifications out there and they can even vary by country or region. Just look into one that is obtainable for your business. 

Reduce unnecessary travel

It’s okay to admit that business trips are one of the best parts of work. But it’s best to cut down on them for the sake of the environment. The pandemic has proven that many meetings such as workshops, networking events, meetings, and socials can all be helped virtually. So it’s best to move forward and begin looking into a more eco-friendly way to continue these.

Minimizing travel is not only going to save a lot of money for the company but it’s also going to massively help the environment as well by cutting down your carbon footprint. This doesn’t mean that travel has to stop, but it’s best to only have company travel when it’s necessary. In the end, this is going to massively help with creating a more stable and productive business .

Make charitable contributions

If you’re wanting to offset your and your company’s environmental impact then it’s best to first begin actively supporting organizations that are aiming to help the environment. This can include conservatories, ethical charities, and those that aim to clean up our oceans. Some other ideas that you can do to help out can include

  • Donate a percentage of proceeds to environmental programs
  • Set up a fundraiser within your community
  • Start a promotion such as planting trees for every item sold
  • Getting your team on board and actively volunteering with these charities

This is a great way to create a relationship with a charitable organization while also gaining the trust of consumers as well.

Reach out and talk to consumers

It’s important to know what the consumers want. So why not go ahead and just ask? This can also include leading influencers within the industry or even a specific niche. You can ask influencers (your customers and social media followers too) what type of changes should be made to your business. They’re going to be very direct with what they believe is best. Also, listening to these customers and followers will make a big impact and a long-lasting positive impression.

 

Eco-Friendly Garden Prep: Summer Tips for a Greener Business Space

By Julie Starr • June 5, 2025
If you're lucky enough to have a garden as part of your business, taking some time to set it up for summer is a great investment of your energy. Not only will it be ready for your customers to spend time in, but you can also incorporate some eco-friendly elements into it. Many people just think about the property and what eco-friendly updates they can make , but there are plenty that you can implement in your garden. This gives you the best of both worlds. You own a sacred and beautiful place for your customers to spend their summer, and at the same time, you can do your part for a better planet. If this is the route you want to take, then you also need to consider how to do this with the different seasons. To help you on your journey, here are some top tips for preparing your garden for summer. Plant trees and flowers Planting trees and flowers in your garden is a must. It will make a beautiful scene of nature for everyone to enjoy. Trees will provide people and animals with shade, as well as provide a habitat for wildlife. More trees are needed in the world because they purify the air that we breathe. Flowers, especially if you plant with pollinators in mind, can be an excellent way to attract bees and butterflies, which contribute largely to the earth. Use natural pest control When preparing your garden for summer, you can do this more sustainably and kindly by using natural pest control. Simply by planting trees and flowers, you are likely to attract lots of different wildlife, some of which may destroy your efforts. While all wildlife should be considered, you may need to take measures. Some better and more eco-friendly ways you can do this, as opposed to spraying toxic chemicals onto your plants and into the air, you can implement companion planting, using protective nets over your crops, choosing resilient plants, using natural repellents, and encouraging natural predators so nature can do its thing. Maintain your garden Maintaining your garden in itself can make it more eco-friendly. Composting your garden waste regularly, and kitchen waste can help you to reduce overall waste and create nutrient-rich soil. This is a great cycle of sustainability. You can also keep on top of things that need cleaning and replacing, so you can recycle the materials for other garden structures and projects, and repurpose things around your garden before they become waste. If you have features in your garden like a swimming pool, then a regular pool maintenance service is going to be vital in keeping your water consumption to a minimum, as when it is cleaned and maintained, it will need to be drained and refilled less as well as using less energy. You could also consider how you can use natural purification methods to reduce chemical usage and support biodiversity right in your backyard. Your garden is just an eco-friendly project waiting to be built. Use these top tips to help you get started.

The Impact of Sustainable Practices on the Food Service Industry

By Julie Starr • June 3, 2025
Sustainability is no longer something that can be considered optional in many businesses, including the food industry. From fast casual to fine dining, businesses face pressure to reduce waste, cut emissions, and use resources responsibly. Customers noticed, so too did regulators. This shift isn't about trends; it's about long-term business health. Operators now rethink everything: ingredients, packaging, equipment, and even furniture. The choices that they make affect cost, reputation, and the environment. Forward-thinking brands see sustainability as a chance to stand out, align with customer values, save money, and future-proof their business. Let's look at how sustainable practices are shaping the future of food service and why furniture choices matter more than ever. Sustainable Sourcing and Supply Chains Restaurants are choosing local, seasonal, and organic ingredients. More often, this reduces transportation emissions and supports nearby farms. It also appeals to customers who want food with a story. Sourcing matters; a restaurant that serves organic produce imported from thousands of miles away loses credibility. Local sourcing, when possible, keeps the supply chain shorter and more resilient. They also build community relationships. Sustainable seafood, fair trade coffee, and certified humane meat are becoming menu standards. But it's not just food; suppliers that use low-impact materials, avoid single-use plastics, or operate zero-waste facilities are getting more attention. Working with responsible vendors reduces environmental impact and strengthens the restaurant's reputation. It also makes it easier to meet sustainability benchmarks and certifications. Reducing Food Waste and Single-Use Plastics Food waste is expensive. Restaurants are responding with better forecasting, smaller portions, and creative ways to repurpose ingredients. Many now donate leftovers or compost scraps. Smart kitchen systems have reduced waste by tracking usage and spoilage. Front of house, more places encourage guests to take home leftovers or offer flexible portion sizes. Single-use plastics are also being phased out; straws, cutlery, and containers are switching to compostable or reusable versions. Many cities now require this, but even without mandates, customers expect it. Small changes make a big difference, such as swapping plastic lids for fiber-based ones or using reusable containers for takeout. In the long run, it also sends a clear message about your brand Energy Efficiency and Equipment Choices Energy use is a major cost for food service businesses. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems can contribute significantly. Induction cooktops, LED lighting , low-flow faucets, and energy-saving refrigeration reduce the environmental footprint. Some kitchens are even going all-electric to reduce reliance on gas. Smart energy monitoring systems provide real-time insights; this helps operators find waste, track trends, and make better decisions. Beyond the kitchen, some restaurants invest in solar panels or purchase renewable energy. It shows leadership and appeals to customers who care about climate action. Designing with Sustainability in Mind Interior design now plays a role in sustainability. Choosing eco-friendly materials and modular furniture reduces waste and supports the circular economy. Furniture companies that sell food service furniture offer tables, chairs, and booths made from recycled or responsibly sourced wood, metal, and plastics. Their products are durable, stylish, and built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Long-lasting furniture means fewer items in landfills. Plus, some suppliers offer take-back programs or extended product life. The right furniture also supports flexible layouts, which is important for adapting to changing service models like outdoor dining or shared spaces. Aligning with Customer Expectations More diners care about sustainability than ever before. It’s something that is extremely prominent in today’s dining experience. They want to support places that reflect their values. Transparency matters too , diners want to know exactly what businesses are doing to be more sustainable. Posting sourcing details, using certifications, and showing behind-the-scenes efforts builds trust. Sustainability isn't just a back-of-house concern; it should be visible throughout the customer journey. Guests notice packaging, signage, cleaning products, and even furniture. If your chairs are made from reclaimed wood or your tables are built from recycled metal, it becomes part of the story you tell. Employees also want to work for businesses that care; sustainability efforts can boost morale, improve retention, and create a strong workplace culture. Being consistent across all touchpoints helps turn sustainability from a checklist into a core part of your brand identity. Tracking Progress and Measuring Impact To stay on track, businesses need to measure what matters. Sustainability isn't guesswork; it's data-driven. Many restaurants now set goals for waste reduction, water usage, and carbon emissions. Digital dashboards, smart meters, and waste tracking apps provide clear feedback. Certifications like LEED , Green Restaurant Association, or B Corp can help validate progress, but the real value comes from aligning with goals and quickly reporting results. This transparency involves sharing results with staff and customers. This builds trust and shows accountability. Food service brands that track their impact tend to improve faster; they spot problems early and share wins more confidently. A culture of measurement helps maintain steady progress and keeps sustainability top of mind. Collaborating Across the Industry No restaurant can do it alone. Real change happens through partnerships. Food services need ot consider teaming up with local farms, recycling programs, and talking to local councils about any green schemes . This collaboration speeds up progress and helps avoid mistakes. Industry groups and supply networks now host workshops and certifications focused on sustainability. These shared resources help smaller businesses catch up and stay competitive. Technology platforms also make collaboration easier. Apps that connect surplus food with charities or tools for joint purchasing of sustainable goods are helping restaurants work smarter together. By building strong networks, the industry strengthens itself. Working together, sustainability leads to better outcomes and stronger communities. Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future in Food Service Sustainability touches every part of the food service industry, from menus to materials. The shift toward responsible choices is clear. Restaurants that act now gain a competitive edge; they reduce costs, attract loyal customers, and stay ahead of regulations. The transition doesn't have to be all or nothing; small steps lead to big changes. Choosing eco-friendly furniture, like the options from food service furniture, is one of the smart steps. It shows commitment, supports long-term value, and elevates the dining experience. Sustainability is no longer an add-on; it’s a business essential. For those who embrace it, it can be a source of growth, loyalty, and resilience.