Using Green Technology to Save Money

Most businesses are already aware that using green technology to save money is now more than just a concept. Going green can also improve efficiency in the workplace, lower overheads and can actually bring tax breaks for your business.

Why Use Green Technology?

Although some business owners think that going green is just another passing trend there are real benefits to be had. Being energy efficient can help lower overheads, save on fuel, reduce waste, save money and of course help the environment. Although implementation is not just a case of suddenly “going green” there will be real rewards for the businesses that do make the leap. The government have already introduced tax breaks to companies that invest in energy efficient machinery and technology.

Tax Breaks For Businesses

Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) is available to those businesses that incorporate energy efficient technologies within their business. This means businesses can claim 100% of their first year capital allowances. The entire capital cost of this investment can be written off from taxable profits. Technologies can include solar heating systems, lighting, motors and drives, energy efficient transport, water efficient showers and taps, and boiler equipment.

Information Technology

IT departments can also help the environment with a number of energy saving devices. Hardware such as notebooks, servers and workstations are now produced that comply with the Energy Star guideline levels of low power consumption. Power management systems implemented into computers and monitors will also save energy by switching systems off when not in use; this can even be done remotely. Energy efficient monitors, recycled electronic devices, and the paperless office can also be easily implemented into the workplace.

Telecommuting

Telecommuting is one of the major ways to go green in the workplace. You will be implementing a greener office by using less equipment and less power in the workplace. The number of computers in the workplace will also be reduced as will heating, lighting and transportation costs. Telecommuting is becoming a very popular and cost effective way to conduct business.

Cutting Overhead Costs

Using energy saving equipment in the workplace will cut overheads such as fuel consumption for lighting and heating. Although there will be an initial investment it will pay for itself after a period of time. Implementing energy saving devices should cut energy consumption drastically and this decrease will be seen within the first six months. There are businesses that have already used solar energy to minimise their fuel consumption by as much as 50%.

Communications

Communications technology is a low cost effective way to implement green technology into your business. Using video conferencing systems for presentations and sales meetings significantly reduces the costs spent on hotel bills and transportation. Video conferencing systems are inexpensive to implement into the workplace and easy to use. Global companies will see a very real difference to costs by implementing this type of communications device.

Gaining A Reputation

Going green is not just about saving money, it can also enhance your business reputation. Businesses that are seen to be actively involved in environmental issues can also use this fact as a marketing point. Saving the environment is a very hot issue at the moment and is a major concern to a huge number of people. It will not do your business any harm at all to let people know that you are environmentally friendly and it can also help build relations with other green companies. Using green technology will give your business a responsible image in the publics' mind and can help to boost your profits.

Environmental issues are a major hot topic at the moment and the public perception of wasteful companies is at an all time low. Companies that do implement green technology will save money and enhance their own reputation. It may take time to set this type of technology in place but there is government help available in the form of tax breaks and grants. Reducing business costs is a major plus point but enhancing a environmentally responsible reputation should not be underestimated.