Greener Business, Stronger Future: Simple Ways to Make Your Business More Sustainable

Sustainability isn’t just for big corporations with ESG departments. Businesses of all sizes - whether you’re a sole trader or a growing SME - have a part to play in building a greener future. The good news? Going green doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

We’re seeing more and more clients look at how they can reduce waste, lower emissions, and operate more responsibly - often with added benefits for cost savings, team morale, and reputation.

Here are some practical, low-barrier ways to start making your business more sustainable.

1. Go Paperless Where Possible

Switching to cloud-based systems (like Xero) doesn’t just improve efficiency - it can drastically reduce your reliance on paper. Consider:

• Digital invoices and receipts

• Online contracts and e-signatures

• Shared cloud folders instead of printed reports

It’s not just better for the environment - it also saves storage space, printing costs, and admin time.

2. Switch to Renewable Energy Suppliers

If you have control over your premises, switching to a renewable energy supplier is one of the most impactful changes you can make. Many green tariffs are competitively priced, and switching is easier than ever.

Even if you’re in a shared building, speak to the landlord or building manager - they may be open to greener options too.

3. Cut Commuting Emissions

Encourage greener travel by:

• Offering cycle-to-work schemes

• Supporting hybrid working where practical (which can also reduce overheads)

• Promoting car-sharing among staff

• Providing EV charging points, if viable

Fewer cars = lower emissions and happier teams.

4. Review Your Suppliers

Who you buy from matters. Consider:

• Are your suppliers using sustainable packaging?

• Are they local, reducing transport miles?

• Do they have environmental policies in place?

You don’t have to overhaul your supply chain overnight, but asking the questions can lead to better choices - and better alignment with your values.

5. Reduce Energy Waste

Small actions across your office can lead to big reductions:

• Use energy-efficient lighting (LEDs are a must!)

• Install smart thermostats

• Switch off equipment overnight

• Run dishwashers and printers only when full

Again, greener often means cheaper. It’s a win-win.

6. Make Sustainability Part of Your Culture

Get your team involved. It’s easier to build momentum when everyone’s on board:

• Set green goals as a team (e.g. reduce paper use by 50%)

• Nominate a “sustainability champion” in the office

• Run occasional “green audits” to track progress

• Celebrate small wins and share ideas

You don’t need to be perfect - just proactive.

7. Track Your Carbon Footprint

Many SMEs assume carbon tracking is just for large companies - but new tools are making it easier than ever. Depending on your business, you may be able to calculate your footprint and even work toward certification (like B Corp or Carbon Neutral status).

Why It Matters

Going green isn’t just the right thing to do - it can also:

• Cut costs through reduced waste and energy bills

• Improve your reputation

• Attract like-minded clients and staff

• Prepare your business for future regulations or supply chain expectations

Looking to Build a More Sustainable Business?

We can help business owners not only grow profitably, but responsibly. If you’d like to explore practical ways to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and make your operations more environmentally friendly - we’d love to help.

Let’s make “greener” a business advantage—not just a buzzword.