Businesses in the UK have been put on notice for their unsustainable and pollutive practices, as the government’s Net Zero strategy continues to expand in scope. The significant disproportion between individual carbon footprints and businesses’ carbon footprints is plain to see.
While larger businesses have more to answer for than independent counterparts, even small, independent, or sole-trading trade businesses have their own sustainability to consider. As a trade business, what might you consider to improve sustainability for the future – in so doing, pre-empting new legislation and improving public opinion of your business?
Let’s take a look at some things you might want to consider in this post.
How Independent Tradespeople Can Adopt Sustainable Practices
#1: Investing in Equipment
The old adage “buy cheap, buy twice” is not just sound financial advice for the budding businessperson; it is also a sustainability message for the ages. When starting out afresh in a trade, the initial investment necessary to stock up on the right tools and materials can be worryingly high, and might inspire you to seek cheaper deals on tools and equipment.
But cheaper equipment is more likely to break and require replacement – increasing e-waste as well as your operating costs.
There is another crucial way in which early investment in equipment can inform your business’ overall sustainability. By actively investing in eco-friendly energy alternatives, you can buck your reliance on the national grid and fossil fuels. Getting solar panels installed at your workshop can take your bench tools off-grid, while electrifying your vehicle fleet can significantly reduce your carbon emissions in driving to and from jobs.
#2: Reducing Waste
Earlier, we made mentioned the possibility of generating e-waste through reliance on cheap and unreliable tools. Your business’ waste in general is a key point of concern with regard to sustainability, particularly where your trade involves the use of non-biodegradable materials or toxic chemicals.
Solving your trade business’ waste issue can go some way to improving the eco-friendliness of your outfit. This might require pivoting away from certain unsustainable materials altogether, or striking up partnerships with recycling organisations to ensure your waste is stored, disposed of, or re-used effectively.
#3: Going Paperless
While going digital might seem to mean very little for you as a trade business, given the majority of your work is hands-on, making the switch can be much more impactful than at first glance. Ink is a costly and pollutive material, while the paper is much less sustainable a product than its recyclability would suggest.
Making invoices, orders and inventories digitally completely removes your need for paper records, and limits unrecyclable ink waste in the process.
#4: Using Environmentally-Friendly Products
Using products that are made from sustainable materials and have minimal negative impact on the environment is a key step in becoming a more sustainable independent tradesperson. Consider using products that are made from recycled materials, are biodegradable, or have a low carbon footprint.
For example, instead of using traditional paints and stains, consider using water-based or low-VOC options. Not only are these products better for the environment, but they can also improve indoor air quality and be safer for both you and your customers.
#5: Use Alternative Modes of Transportation
Cars and trucks are major sources of air pollution, so reducing your use of them can have a significant impact on the environment. Consider using alternative modes of transportation, such as a bicycle or public transportation, to get to job sites.
Not only will this reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also save you money on fuel and maintenance costs. If you need to use a car, consider using a fuel-efficient vehicle or carpooling with other tradespeople.
#6: Educate Customers
As an independent tradesperson, you have the opportunity to educate your customers about sustainable practices and encourage them to adopt eco-friendly habits in their own homes. Share your commitment to sustainability with your customers and provide them with information about products and practices that can help protect the environment.
For example, you could educate them about the benefits of using low-flow toilets, showerheads, and faucets, or about the importance of properly insulating homes to reduce energy usage. By helping your customers make more sustainable choices, you can have a positive impact on the environment and your community.
Final Note
Adopting sustainable practices is essential for independent tradespeople who want to reduce their impact on the environment and operate in a responsible manner. By using environmentally-friendly products, reducing waste, investing in the right equipment, and educating customers, you can make a positive impact on the environment and set a good example for others in your industry.
Not only will these actions help protect the environment, but they can also improve your reputation, attract environmentally-conscious customers, and potentially save you money in the long run.
