Quick and Easy Ways to Make Your Business Greener

Maybe you let Earth Day slip by this year without so much as a thought, but if you're thinking of going green in your business it's never too late to start. Too often, small business owners operate on the misconception that going green would cost them too much time and money. Not so, says small business columnist Steve Strauss, who points out that going green can be good for the environment and your bottom line. In a Huffington Post article, he outlines some simple ways you can make your business greener while also saving money. Here are a few areas to focus on:

Paper: Reduce paper use with a printer that will print on the front and back of a single sheet. Buy recycling bins, mark them and use them.

Energy: Install timers and motion sensors so the office lights and computers go off when not in use. Buy compact fluorescent (CF) bulbs for the office; they cost a little more, but last up to 15 times longer.

Supplies: Look for the Department of Energy's Energy Star certification when buying products. It means they are highly energy efficient, and they shouldn't cost much more than usual. Reuse packaging, packing peanuts and old file folders (by turning them inside out).