12 Simple Ways to Run a More Eco-Friendly Business in 2025

Running a business already has a lot of aspects to consider such as reducing running costs, standing out to the competitors and having a good reputation.

You will forever find yourself trying to think of new ways that your business can achieve this and have regular meetings about any plans of action.

A really easy way to achieve all these is to think about becoming environmentally friendly.

Going green is quickly becoming a smart business move. Whether you’re a solopreneur, a remote-first startup, or scaling an established brand, making eco-conscious decisions can help reduce costs, boost your reputation, and align your company with the values of modern consumers.

Sustainability isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. You don’t need to overhaul your entire operation to make a difference. In fact, small, consistent changes, like switching to recycled packaging or using energy-efficient lighting, can have a significant impact over time.

From how you source materials to how you manage energy waste, there are countless ways to reduce your environmental footprint. Forward-thinking companies are even rethinking how they generate their electricity and reduce water waste in the office.

Practices like installing water-efficient toilets are already transforming how commercial properties manage everyday interactions, showing that the green shift goes well beyond surface-level swaps.

In this guide, you’ll discover twelve practical and profitable ways to make your business more eco-friendly. These ideas are accessible, scalable, and rooted in both ethics and efficiency, as being green should also support your bottom line.

How to Have an Eco-Friendly Business

1. Switch to Renewable Energy Sources.

One of the most impactful ways to green your business is by transitioning to renewable energy. Traditional electricity generated from fossil fuels contributes significantly to carbon emissions, while solar, wind, and hydropower offer cleaner and more sustainable alternatives.

For many small businesses, installing solar panels is more affordable than ever, thanks to government incentives and long-term savings on energy bills.

If you’re not in a position to install your own system, look into green energy programs offered by your utility provider. These allow you to choose where your energy comes from without the upfront cost of installation.

Making the switch sends a powerful message to customers and partners. In an increasingly values-driven economy, businesses that embrace sustainability are more likely to build trust and attract loyal followers.

2. Lighting.

Lighting, in particular, can become a really expensive running cost for a business, especially as they grow and require more and more office space.

Not to mention needing to adhere to health and safety working environments and looking after peoples overall health in the workplace (some people require special lighting).

Although switching to LED or CFL bulbs can seem more costly to begin with you will find that they are not only better for the environment they will ultimately save your business costs in the long run.

3. Update Old Technology.

Have an office full of old tech that you just don’t want to part with because one, it’s reliable and is still running fine and two, it could be costly to replace technology in the work-place.

However, it’s useful to know that by replacing your old technology with new you are often helping the environment and lowering your essential running costs such as your electricity consumption as the majority of new tech has an excellent energy performance to match its capabilities.

So not only are you improving your work environment you are also saving yourself money.

4. Go Paperless and Embrace Digital Solutions.

Reducing paper waste is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to shrink your business’s environmental footprint.

Start by moving invoices, contracts, and receipts into digital formats. Tools like e-signature platforms, cloud storage, and accounting apps make it easy to stay organized while cutting back on printing.

Switching to digital processes isn’t just greener; it’s also more efficient. You’ll save time, reduce clutter, and make it easier for remote teams to collaborate. Plus, clients increasingly expect businesses to operate online.

5. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

You’ve heard it before, but when done intentionally, the “three Rs” can still be a game-changer. Recycling has fast become something that most people take part in and it is now becoming more and more used with businesses worldwide. Why wouldn’t you want to take part?

Start by reducing unnecessary waste: avoid single-use items in the office, buy in bulk when practical, and choose quality over quantity.

It can be as simple as having an extra bin in the workplace for recyclable materials such as glass, cardboard, paper, and food waste.

If you use tools such as cardboard balers you are not only able to store more before needing a collect but you are also helping to the environment and cutting long term costs. It can really help with your annual budget to look into this option.  

Next, focus on reusing. Repurpose shipping materials, donate or resell old office equipment, and encourage employees to bring reusable items like water bottles or containers.

Finally, make recycling easy and consistent. Set up clearly labeled bins for paper, plastic, and electronics. Partner with local e-waste or ink cartridge recycling services for proper disposal of tech waste.

When recycling is integrated into your daily business operations, it becomes second nature for your team and a natural part of your brand’s values.

6. Opt for Green Cleaning Products.

The products you use to clean your workspace can have a bigger environmental impact than you think. Many conventional cleaners contain harsh chemicals that harm waterways, contribute to air pollution, and affect indoor air quality. Swapping them out for eco-friendly alternatives is a simple but meaningful step toward sustainability.

Green cleaning products are made with biodegradable ingredients and often come in recyclable or refillable packaging. They’re safer for your team, better for the planet, and increasingly easy to find through commercial suppliers.

Small changes like green cleaning can create a healthier workspace and show your commitment to responsible business practices.

7. Green power.

Have a think about where you receive your power from as a business. A really good way to stand out from the crowd and to become eco-friendly at the same time is to look into your source of power.

By this we mean think about using a company that can provide you with green power.

Green energy is where the energy provided has been sourced from methods such as wind turbines or solar panels.

Now it’s best to bear in mind that by opting to use green energy you may see an increase in your electricity costs as an overall. But the advantages of standing out from the competition and becoming an environmentally friendly business to shout about.

8. Source Locally Whenever Possible.

Choosing local suppliers is an underrated but powerful way to reduce your environmental impact. When you source goods or services nearby, you cut down on transportation emissions, support regional economies, and often gain better transparency into how products are made.

Whether it’s locally roasted coffee for your office, a regional printing company, or raw materials from a nearby distributor, every local purchase keeps your supply chain lean and green. Plus, working with local vendors often means faster turnaround times and stronger relationships.

9. Encourage Remote Work and Virtual Collaboration.

Reducing employee commutes is one of the fastest ways to lower your company’s carbon footprint.

When teams work from home, whether full-time or in a hybrid model, you immediately cut down on vehicle emissions, energy use in office spaces, and even paper consumption.

Remote work also opens up opportunities for greener habits. Employees can manage their own energy-efficient home setups, reduce reliance on disposable office supplies, and skip the daily takeout packaging.

To make it successful, invest in reliable communication tools and set clear expectations. Virtual collaboration tools like project management apps, video calls, and shared drives keep teams productive and connected without the environmental cost.

10. Use Sustainable Packaging.

If your business ships products, packaging is an area where going green can make a visible and immediate difference.

Traditional plastic mailers and excessive bubble wrap are wasteful and often non-recyclable. Switching to biodegradable, recyclable, or compostable materials helps minimize landfill impact and tells your customers you care about the environment.

Options like corrugated cardboard, paper-based tape, and compostable mailers are more accessible than ever. You can also go the extra mile by encouraging returns in original packaging or offering incentives for package reuse.

Consumers notice these efforts. Sustainable packaging adds value to your brand, enhances the unboxing experience, and reinforces your commitment to responsible business practices.

11. Educate Your Team.

Creating a more eco-friendly business isn’t a solo mission. It takes collective effort. Educating your team about sustainability helps build a culture of awareness and shared responsibility. When employees understand why certain changes are happening, they’re more likely to support and champion them.

Start by including sustainability goals in onboarding materials or company handbooks. Host occasional workshops or short team huddles focused on eco-friendly practices. Even a simple monthly email with green tips can keep the topic front of mind.

You can also encourage staff to bring ideas forward. After all, the best solutions often come from within your team. When everyone is aligned, your sustainability efforts become part of your company DNA.

12. Partner with Green Vendors.

Every business relies on a network of vendors, from office suppliers to manufacturers. Choosing to work with companies that prioritize sustainability extends your impact and strengthens your values-driven brand. Look for vendors that use renewable energy, minimize packaging waste, or hold certifications like Fair Trade or B Corp.

Ask potential partners about their environmental practices before signing contracts. Can they provide eco-friendly alternatives? Do they share sustainability reports or track their carbon footprint?

Even small switches, like sourcing recycled office paper or using a sustainable printing company, can reinforce your commitment to conscious business.

13. Invest in PV and Tech Waste Management.

As more businesses adopt solar power, a new sustainability challenge is emerging: what happens when solar panels reach the end of their life cycle? Proper disposal and recycling of photovoltaic (PV) systems is essential to ensure the benefits of solar energy aren’t undone by future waste.

That’s where pv recycling comes in. This growing solution allows businesses to responsibly manage old solar equipment, recover valuable materials, and keep harmful components out of landfills.

Beyond solar, tech waste in general requires special attention. Partner with certified e-waste recyclers, create a device donation program, or establish a tech return policy to ensure devices don’t end up as environmental hazards.

Investing in PV and tech waste management helps your business stay ahead of the curve and truly commit to a circular, sustainable future.

14. Share Your Progress Publicly.

Sustainability efforts are most powerful when they’re shared. Being transparent about your green initiatives not only holds your business accountable but also inspires others to take action.

Whether you’re reducing energy use, switching suppliers, or recycling solar panels, let your customers and community know.

You don’t need to be perfect, just honest. Post updates on your blog or social media, include eco goals in your company newsletter, or create a dedicated sustainability page on your website.

Sharing wins (and challenges) builds trust and positions your brand as a forward-thinking leader. In fact, sharing challenges as well as you include them in your strategy to improve further is the best way to inspire others. 

Final Words

Greening your business doesn’t require a massive overhaul. It starts with a few intentional choices. These changes don’t just benefit the planet. They make your business more efficient, future-proof, and aligned with what modern consumers care about.

Sustainability is no longer optional. It’s an opportunity to lead, connect, and grow. So why not be the business that makes a difference?

Do you have any other ways that you can easily help you create a more eco-friendly business?