For example, switching from incandescent to LED lighting minimizes energy use and the pollution associated with generating electricity. Companies that have traditionally used toxic solvents for parts cleaning often find that hot water can work just as well. Beer-makers have discovered that organic materials left over from the brewing process that used to be discarded can actually be used as animal feed. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has an entire program devoted to encouraging P2 practices in industry and at home.

In response to environmental concerns, many businesses have made changes in their product materials, ingredients and packaging. Advances in technology have resulted in the production of more sustainable materials and production methods. Taking the time to learn about alternatives to your current product formulas and components can help you revamp your current assortment and develop new products that are more sustainable.

What are you doing to control resource consumption throughout your organization? Learning about ways that you can control consumption will not only save money for your business, but also it may lead to processes that prevent the waste of materials and energy. Here are some areas to consider:

• Recycling: Place blue recycling bins around the office for easier trash disposal. You can also provide smaller containers for recyclable materials along with individual employee wastebaskets. Demonstrate your support for sustainable products by asking your office manager to prioritize the purchase of office supplies that contain recycled materials.
• Reducing consumption: Encourage employees to minimize waste by reducing unnecessary printing, turning lights off in rooms that are not being used and bringing their own mugs and reusable water bottles from home.
• Facility selection and development: How green are your facilities? Whether you are in a warehouse, office building, retail storefront or have a presence in multiple structures, buildings matter. Does the building pay for a recycling service to regularly haul away recyclable materials? Is the lighting energy efficient? Take all of these things into consideration when making decisions about leasing or purchasing a commercial property.
• Travel policies: Travel uses fuel and other resources. Are there ways for your company to cut back on unnecessary travel and make use of technology, such as video conferencing, instead?
• Commute options: Does your company offer incentives for car pooling or using public transportation to get to work? What about allowing some workers to telecommute one or more days per week?

Ownership of your manufacturing standards and internal processes is just one aspect of developing sustainable business practices. Your supply chain, which includes sourcing materials, manufacturing the products, and then distributing them to retailers and consumers, also has an impact on the environment. Ask your suppliers, logistics companies and manufacturing partners about their sustainability practices.

Sharing your commitment to sustainable business practices with consumers is important. Not only will your product stories and explanations enhance your brand image, but also, they can influence your customers to live more sustainably.