The Businesses that have a large impact on the environment are being asked to cut emissions as part of the Paris Agreement. This effort was initiated by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). The primary focus is on reducing the greenhouse gases (GHG’s) that are released by the large contributors to climate change. Businesses that have a significant impact on CO2 emissions should be encouraged to reduce or provide incentives for their employees to reduce their emissions. A carbon-efficient strategy can ensure that businesses can remain competitive in a world economy that will continue to face many environmental challenges over the next few years and decades.
There are several approaches to helping business owners create a greener future while still operating within an industry that is thriving and financially healthy. One of the best ways to begin a company-wide initiative is to offer business owners financial rewards for emissions reductions in their facility. Incentives can range from lower energy consumption rates to financial rewards for companies that reduce their facilities footprint. Other programs can provide financial rewards for reducing water consumption or even provide tax rebates for installing alternative energy sources.
Business owners who are looking to help their company to take a leadership role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions should begin their research and assessments with an honest assessment of the current business practices at their organization. Doing so will provide a solid starting place for developing a company culture that drives the sustainability efforts of the business. When a business has established what behaviors or actions it will take to significantly reduce its emissions while still maintaining profitability, business owners can then begin to explore and develop additional programs that will further strengthen the sustainability efforts of their company.
Some companies will seek to implement their own programs to cut their emissions. While this is an excellent step in the right direction, other companies may choose to partner with a business to implement these programs. For example, some corporations work closely with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce their emissions. Partnering with a business that also works with the EPA can offer many additional benefits.
One benefit is cost savings. Partnering with companies that already produce green goods and services can reduce the business’s expenses related to purchasing these products and services. Additionally, companies that have existing programs can reduce their expenses related to complying with the EPA’s program requirements by sharing costs with the business partner. When both parties reach an agreement to cooperate, both sides can benefit by saving money. In addition, businesses can learn more about the EPA program requirements and how to get started, saving time and money in the long run.
There are a number of programs available for businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. When evaluating a company’s options, it is important for a company to determine whether or not it would be better to implement its own programs or to partner with another organization to do so. Most companies will find that implementing its own programs will lead to a greater sense of satisfaction from employees and clients. However, partnering with a third-party company may provide a quicker pathway to reaching its goals. Regardless of which route is chosen, both partners should be able to work together to ensure their goals are met.
