Ways to Make Your Business More Eco-Friendly

Nature has always been at the forefront of our minds and we try to minimise our footprint on the earth through our natural formulations and our recyclable and refillable packaging, but also across our wider business.
Here are some of the small, practical changes we’ve put into place here at Bramley to make us more environmentally friendly, that can be adopted in your business too.

Switch to Eco-Friendly Search Engines

Ecosia.org is a search engine that plants trees with its ad revenue. For every search you make, Ecosia uses the profits to plant trees in areas where they are most needed, helping to offset carbon emissions and restore ecosystems. By making Ecosia your default search engine at work, your company can contribute to global reforestation efforts while carrying out its day to day business.

Opt for Sustainable Office Supplies

Sourcing office supplies from sustainable providers is another simple way to reduce your business's environmental footprint. Who Gives A Crap offers eco-friendly toilet paper made from 100% recycled materials or bamboo, which significantly reduces deforestation and energy consumption compared to traditional toilet paper. 50% of their profits are donated to building toilets and improving sanitation in developing countries. By switching to Who Gives A Crap, your business can support a circular economy and contribute to global sanitation initiatives.

Implement a Recycling Programme

One of the most straightforward ways to reduce waste in your office is by implementing a robust recycling program. Ensure that all employees have access to recycling bins for paper, plastics, and metals, and provide clear guidelines on what can and cannot be recycled. Partnering with local recycling companies can also help ensure that your waste is handled responsibly. Some of our harder to recycle plastic is collected by a company called GrassRoots Recycling and turned into garden furniture!

Reduce Energy & Water Consumption

Energy efficiency is key to reducing your business's carbon footprint. Simple actions like switching to energy-efficient appliances and lights and ensuring that computers and other electronics are turned off when not in use can make a big difference. Consider conducting an energy audit to identify areas where your business can cut down on energy use. Install a “Hippo” water saving device into the cistern of the toilet – it saves around 3 litres of water every time the toilet is flushed.

Source Locally and Sustainably

When buying goods and services for your business, prioritise local suppliers and those who adhere to sustainable practices. Sourcing locally reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Also consider the lifecycle of the products you buy—opt for items that are durable, reusable, or made from recycled materials. We (of course!) have Bramley Hand Wash and Hand Cream in our loos which like many business are refilled from our 5 litre jerry cans. Each one uses 72% less plastic than replacing with a new bottle each time.

Encourage Eco-Friendly Travel

Business travel can have a significant carbon footprint. Instead of driving, consider using trains for business trips. Trainhugger.com is a UK-based platform that not only makes it easy to book train tickets but also plants a tree for every journey booked through their site. This initiative helps to offset the carbon emissions of your travel, making your business trips greener and more sustainable.