Are you doing everything you can to “green office” and lessen your business’s impact on the earth? You’re not alone. Many small businesses have moved towards socially responsible and environmentally conscious policies in their daily activities. Consumers like to hear that buying from your company means investing in sustainable solutions. With that in mind, isn’t it time to extend your green values to your outreach and advertising campaigns?
Here are 5 great ideas to get your business started in marketing and advertising sustainably:
- Focus on online marketing. Building your social networks, email list, and audience will not only save paper, but also help you cultivate relationships on a large scale. Create digital assets like memes, infographics, and other highly shareable graphics to give your marketing materials a chance to go viral. Learn how to maximize your return on investment by taking advantage of apps that centralize your social networks and allow you to coordinate your messages more consistently.
- Use eco-friendly papers and inks in your printed materials. Many printers now offer recycled business cards, stationery, and even brochure paper. Soy ink may be a bit more expensive, but it is chemical-free and easy to recycle. Water-based inks are also a great option. Compare printers that are available online and see what green options they offer. The possibilities are pleasantly surprising.
- Use CDs, USB sticks, and QR codes to deliver large publications like catalogs. Instead of spending a ton of money on printing, you can attach your .pdf catalog to a QR code or mail it out to potential customers without printing hundreds of pages per catalog. If you’re planning an event like a fair or fair, make sure Wifi is available so interested prospects can opt-in to view your materials on demand via QR code.
- Give ecological promotional items. If you’re a retailer, include a free shopping bag with your logo and website address with every purchase. If you provide business services, purchase and brand sustainable bamboo or cork items with your logo, website, and contact information. If you own a club or are promoting an event, visit Zazzle.com to create organic cotton t-shirts that you can resell. While you’re at it, make sure if you’re selling tangible goods that you select the greenest packaging available. There are many companies that specialize in environmentally friendly packaging.
- Offer green incentives to your customers. Green business is not just about what you sell, but also about what you give back to your local community and society at large. Offer to donate a small percentage of your proceeds to an environmental nonprofit of your choice, or better yet, contact Trees for the Future (treesforthefuture.org) and set up a program that donates a tree for every purchase of your product. Your customers will feel great about the difference they are making by shopping at your business, and you can feel great about planting trees!
These are just a few tips for making your marketing and advertising effort greener, but they’re a great starting point for a comprehensive small business plan that includes sustainability in your day-to-day business. Don’t be afraid to try something new and different. Invite your employees to come together, brainstorm, and be a part of your green marketing efforts.