As the importance of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) policies has grown for businesses, so has a push towards adopting ‘Green Tech’ practices in the workplace (i.e. using technology in an environmentally friendly way).
When followed, Green Tech can help lower a business’s carbon footprint and energy consumption, as well as reduce overall e-waste.
Why bother with green tech?
Aside from the obvious environmental benefits, incorporating Green Tech practices alongside other ESG-minded policies is increasingly necessary for small and medium-sized businesses, for several reasons.
First, even though ESG reporting is not typically mandatory for smaller, non-listed businesses, larger companies that are required to produce ESG reports may request information about a supplier’s ESG practices to understand the indirect emissions arising within their value chain.Similarly, ESG practices may be considered by lenders as part of loan applications, or be a factor that a client takes into account when evaluating a project bid.
Ways to go green
Green Tech can apply to the whole lifecycle of a piece of equipment, from its manufacture, use, to its ultimate disposal.
The following are just a few examples of how a business might adopt Green Tech practices.
Embrace energy saving
Solar panels are a well-known way to cut electricity costs and boost a business’s green credentials, but even installing LED lights can go a long way to reduce energy consumption. For maximum impact, smart lighting solutions—bulbs that can be controlled wirelessly and customised to brightness—are also available.
Extend the life of equipment
Laptops are a necessity in this age, but new laptops are expensive, especially when buying at scale. This is where refurbished laptops come in: not only are they a great way to give a laptop a new lease on life, but a refurbished laptop costs considerably less than a new machine, without the associated e-waste.
Try a digital spring-clean
Removing unnecessary documents and redundant data can do wonders to improve a device’s performance, all while reducing energy consumption.
Commit to responsible disposal
When tech does reach the end of its useful life, whether that’s a mobile phone, monitor, laptop, or tablet, make sure it’s disposed of correctly. Many companies and local councils offer drop-off depots that specialise in handling e-waste, so there’s really no excuse to keep hold of out-of-date devices.
Check how you’re tracking
Businesses serious about ESG might also consider a carbon tracker, which is a digital tool that can help calculate and record a company’s carbon emissions. This can help businesses find out if they’re on track, and if not, identify areas for improvement.
Thinking of going green?
Curious about how to make your business greener? Speak to a member of our team today. We’d be happy to identify the best, most cost-effective options for you.
The team at EMspire Advisory are trusted, qualified Chartered Accountants, tax agents, and small business accountants. We work closely with our clients to achieve the best possible outcomes. To find out more, please contact us!
Please note that this information is not specific and is general in nature and cannot be relied on as advice. Please contact us for advice specific to you and your circumstances.