To start, here are 10 things your business can do right now:
1. Compact fluorescent light bulbs
These energy-efficient bulbs cost less than $4
and last a lot longer than incandescent bulbs. If every business in North America switched 10 regular light bulbs for 10 fluorescent bulbs, it would be the equivalent of taking nearly 2 million cars off the highways for a full year.
2. Turn off lights
When you are leaving your office and in unoccupied rooms like conference rooms, storage rooms and bathrooms
3. Turn off office equipment
Turn off copiers, printers or your computer monitor when not in use. Unplug equipment chargers when these items are no longer charging.
4. Get a Business Energy Audit
Many utility companies offer free or low cost energy audits. Take advantage of the service. A few simple changes could save you a lot of money. BC Hydro’s walkthrough audit >>>
5. Air filters
Changing the air filters in your heating and cooling systems regularly can reduce your CO2 output each year by almost 3%.
6. Slow down
The faster you drive the more gasoline you burn and the more CO2 you produce. If you have a lead foot, try some techniques for creating an incentive for going slowly. Listening to a great book on your iPod works well.
7. Install a programmable thermostat
These thermostats cost from less than $100 and can actually cut your heating and cooling costs considerably. The beauty of a programmable thermostat is that you can set them to run your business a little cooler in the winter and a little warmer in the summer and save a lot of money and reduce your CO2 emissions.
8. Recycle
Most waste generated by businesses can be recycled. If you don't have pick-up services in your area phone your City or Regional District and meanwhile take it to the Free Recycling area of the local Landfill or home for curbside pick-up.
9. Buy EnergyStar
If you have to replace an appliance or you want to replace them to reduce your cost and footprint, look for the Energy Star label. Save money and the planet at the same time.
10. Switch your batteries
Rechargeable batteries are a bit more expensive as an initial purchase but they will save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a year if you use batteries for a lot of things like digital cameras, flashlights, radios, MP3 players, etc.
