Efficient Techniques To Reduce Waste In Your Small Business

Waste reduction can benefit your business in several ways, including boosting the reputation of your business with clients, improving your money-saving and ensuring compliance with current US regulations. Waste is a major concern, and Statista data suggests that over 30% of global waste is produced in the US. Here are a few efficient ways your small business can do its part in reducing waste. 

1. Audit your business

It can be challenging to manage or reduce your business waste if you don’t know how much is generated. Therefore, review your facility and assess the supply chain of goods that creates the most waste. Take another look at your consumables and check if you can use recyclable or biodegradable options. Also, before any pick-up, assess how full your recycling bins, compactors, and dumpsters are. Studies have shown that facilities that boost their recycling rates can reduce the frequency of waste pick-ups to save money.

2. Composting

Composting has been more popular, particularly among business owners, in the last few years. So it’s not a bad idea to add your organic business waste to a compost pile. It isn’t only a handy solution for disposing of your organic waste but can also contribute to healthy soil in your neighborhood. Composting is inexpensive to implement since you won’t have to make any new purchases. You only repurpose or reposition your waste bins for the composting program. For example, you can label your compost bins or move them close to the kitchen or coffee machines. This way, coffee grounds, and other food waste won’t be in the trash. 

3. Reduce packaging

Your primary items, supplies, and shipment may come with some packaging which can be tough to avoid. Unfortunately, the excesses can easily multiply the amount of waste your business generates. Since the extra containers and boxes serve no purpose and usually wind up in the garbage, it would be best if you considered low-packaging alternatives. If possible, avoid disposable items such as bottled water altogether. Research suggests that packaging contributes to a third of the waste generated in developed countries. Examine your business’s packaging and determine if you can avoid single-use containers. Additionally, you can invest in a smart packaging machine to reduce waste and provide a more sustainable packaging solution.

4. Recycle

Recycling is a no-brainer. It is more environmentally friendly, although it may require paying for recycling services like you do your other forms of waste management. Embracing recycling can help minimize your business waste. However, it is best to educate and train your employees on what you can recycle or otherwise to make it more effective. You can invest in installing recycling bins through the business premises to simplify things. Recycling won’t only save your money but also improve your business image as eco-friendly. Your business can also benefit from state grants and tax incentives. 

Like anything else, making your business more sustainable can be challenging. But considering its enormous benefits, it can be useful to consider the tips mentioned above to benefit your small business significantly.