It Pays to Go Green


A common misconception is that ‘Going Green’ involves cost and hassle. In fact, there are a number of low-cost or even no-cost opportunities for boosting efficiency in the workplace.

Envirowise, the Government support service for the environment, estimates organisations who take action for the first time can identify savings of up to £250 per employee in office-based companies - or as much as £1,000 per employee for manufacturers!


There are many ways to save money in the workplace. Despite the trend towards a “paperless office”, consumption is rising. When the average office worker gets through 100 sheets of paper per day, the benefits of initiatives such as double sided are obvious. Taking it further by using recycled paper and minimising the use of colour ink can reap further cost savings.


It’s not just stationary use that saves money; the disposal of waste is an additional cost that can be cut thanks to using less material in the first place.


Other small changes in culture help too, such as improving stock control accuracy, turning off machines not in use, switching off lights and even boiling the kettle with just enough water for those having a drink.


Becoming environmentally friendly requires buy-in from all of your staff. Involving employees in creating an Environmental Policy increases motivation towards the general green aim. Do they have suggestions on sourcing more environmentally friendly machinery, energy consumption and waste management? They may even suggest cycling to work!


By having your plans down in an Environmental Policy, you can ensure everyone is singing from the same hymn sheet. A documented policy is increasingly becoming a requirement to be part of major supply chains and is a mandatory requirement for any organisation looking to work for local authorities.


Having an Environmental Policy can also gain favourable customer reaction and improved customer loyalty, better relations with your suppliers and increased appeal to ethical investors.


For organisations looking to go one step further and be in the driving seat for tenders and supply chain consideration, an Environmental Management System (EMS) demonstrates a structured, documented approach to managing a business' environmental performance and responsibilities. The internationally recognised ISO 14001 standard is the most widely known way of achieving a certified EMS, and is something we can provide.







The British Assessment Bureau's reputation was established in 1969 and we achieved pre-eminent status in 1997. Today we are a revered UKAS accredited Assessment Body with an enviable reputation for customer service.


As well as providing certification to internationally recognised standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, we provide bespoke assessment services for people, services and organisations of all sizes.


For more information visit www.british-assessment.co.uk.

 

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