Sustainability is a practical strategy any small or midsize business can adopt to save money, improve efficiency and boost employee well-being. The DOE says that energy-efficient systems can cut usage by up to 75%, and greener workplaces have been shown to increase productivity and reduce sick days by 30%. Beyond cost savings, sustainability attracts eco-conscious clients and enhances your brand’s reputation. But you don’t need to be a green-certified building to get the benefits of sustainability. Here are a few simple ways to leverage modern technology to go green in your business.
- Upgrade To Energy-Efficient Hardware
One of the easiest ways to make your business more sustainable is by switching to energy-efficient devices. ENERGY STAR–certified laptops, monitors and servers use significantly less power than older models. For example, an ENERGY STAR–certified computer uses about 25% less energy than standard equipment, making it a smart upgrade for your wallet (and the planet). Tools like smart power strips can also reduce energy waste from devices left on standby, and energy-efficient printers and copiers can cut power usage during the workday.
2. Adopt Cloud Computing
Platforms like Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud or AWS enable businesses to store data and run applications on shared servers, reducing the need for on-site equipment. Cloud computing also supports scalability, allowing businesses to pay only for the resources they use. This consumption-based model minimizes waste while reducing the capital investment required for IT infrastructure. Many cloud providers are also committed to sustainability, powering their data centers with renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions further.
3. Implement Green IT Solutions
Green IT solutions, like virtualization and e-waste recycling, help businesses become more sustainable while optimizing operations. Virtualization allows companies to run multiple virtual servers on a single physical server, significantly reducing hardware requirements and energy consumption. When hardware needs replacing, e-waste recycling ensures that outdated equipment is disposed of responsibly. Many IT vendors and local recycling programs offer secure recycling services that protect sensitive data and prevent harmful materials from entering landfills.
4. Harness The Internet Of Things (IoT)
IoT devices help businesses monitor and optimize energy use in real time. Smart thermostats like Nest adjust heating and cooling based on occupancy, saving up to 12% on heating and 15% on cooling annually. IoT-powered lighting systems also ensure lights are on only when needed, reducing waste in unused spaces.
5. Go Paperless
Going paperless is one of the easiest ways to reduce your business’s environmental impact. Modern IT solutions, like digital invoicing systems and cloud-based document storage, eliminate the need for physical paper while improving efficiency. Tools like DocuSign enable businesses to handle contracts and forms electronically, saving time and resources. Businesses that still require some paper use should consider printers with duplex printing capabilities to minimize waste and use recycled paper products whenever possible.
6. Utilize Renewable Energy Solutions
Investing in renewable energy, such as solar panels, is a long-term strategy for sustainability. Solar-powered charging stations, for instance, provide a clean energy source for employees to charge their devices, reducing reliance on grid power. While installation costs can be high, tax incentives and rebates make renewable energy more accessible. Over time, these investments pay off in lower utility bills and enhanced sustainability credentials, which can attract eco-conscious customers and partners.
7. Encourage Sustainable Employee Practices
Technology can also encourage employees to adopt greener habits. Tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams reduce the need for unnecessary travel by supporting remote work and virtual meetings. You can also encourage employees to turn off devices or set them to energy-saving modes when not in use and even gamify sustainability by tracking energy savings and rewarding employees for eco-friendly behaviors.
Sustainability Is Good Business
By leveraging modern technology, like energy-efficient hardware, cloud computing and IoT solutions, you can lower operating costs, enhance efficiency and improve employee well-being. But these changes don’t require a massive overhaul; even small steps, like going paperless or encouraging eco-friendly habits, can contribute to a healthier planet and secure a more resilient future for your business.
