There are many reasons to green your company including saving money, attracting better clients, and earning more. However, some eco-friendly steps are easier to take than others. When it comes to going green, it is important to remember that every change makes a difference. Here are some simple tips to start the process that will allow you to market yourself as a green company without feeling like a phony.

1. HAVE AN ENVIRONMENTAL MISSION STATEMENT

Many companies claim to employ "green" practices, but having a mission statement that explicitly outlines your environmental commitment gives consumers confidence that you really care.

2. USE POST CONSUMER WASTE PAPER PRODUCTS

Not all recycled paper is eco-friendly. Only 100% PCW paper-products are made entirely from used fibers. This process uses 45% less energy and creates half the waste of traditional paper-making. If 100% is not available, look for options with as much PCW content as possible. You can find recycled printer paper, paper towels, and toilet paper online. Consider having your business cards printed on recycled paper as well.

3. USE BIODEGRADABLE CLEANERS

Using natural, biodegradable cleaning products reduces your exposure to harsh toxins and other chemicals, and reduces the introduction of these substances into the environment. There are eco-friendly dishwasher detergents, floor cleaners, hand soaps, toilet cleaners and glass cleaners. Next time a bottle runs out, replace it with the greener version.
4. SWITCH TO COMPACT-FLUORESCENT (CFL) OR LED LIGHTS

Both types of bulbs last significantly longer and use much less energy than incandescent bulbs. These CFLs come in a bulk pack and last 8,000 hours each. CFLs work well for outdoor flood lighting too. LED light use even less electricity and last longer (20,000 hours per bulb). They now come in shapes and colors made for the home.
5. REDUCE ENERGY CONSUMPTION

Swapping bulbs is a great start, but there is so much more you can do to cut your electric bill and environmental impact. Upgrade your appliances to Energy Star ones, install motion sensors in your halls and outside, and have your utility company perform an energy audit and/or switch your bill to green energy.
6. GREEN YOUR COMMUTE

7. RECYCLE OUTSIDE THE BOX The average American throws away 1,200 pounds of food a year, most of which could be turned into rich garden soil. You can buy a pre-made outdoor composter or create your own worm bin for indoor composting.
Green web hosting sites take part in a variety of activities, including using renewable energy, planting trees, or buying carbon offsets to mitigate the environmental impact of running their servers and infrastructure. Switching your website over is easy, costs the same, and gives you a green badge for your website.
10. GET CERTIFIED 9. UTILIZE GREEN WEB HOSTING

Use public transportation, create carpools, drive a hybrid vehicle, or bike to work to reduce the carbon footprint of your business. Encourage your employees to as well!

In addition to recycling everything that can be recycled, think green when buying or replacing items. Consider purchasing used or vintage office furniture instead of brand new pieces, and choose longer lasting items, such as refillable whiteboard markers and rechargeable batteries
8. COMPOST

Being certified by or partnered with a green organization provides resources to help your business grow within the green community, and gives your business credibility. The Green Bride Guide offers a online Green Wedding Professional Certification Course to help busy wedding professionals learn how to green every aspect of event and market themselves to this growing demographic. Use the code GoGreen2014 for $100 off.