How To 'Go Green' In Your Retail Store

There are several benefits to creating a 'green' retail store. Owners who place an emphasis on reducing energy and waste will end up saving money on monthly utilities. This alone can yield a savings of thousands of dollars per year. But the real benefit of creating a green store is the positive message it sends to your customers, competitors and your employees. So, how exactly do you create a green retail store? Keep reading to learn how any retail store can accomplish this.

Recycle, Recycle, Recycle!

You can't expect to run a green retail store unless you have a proper recycling program in place. Far too many stores and businesses throw away recyclable materials like cardboard, aluminum and plastic without thinking twice. Tossing a couple pieces of plastic or used cardboard boxes into the trashcan may not seem like a big deal, but you have to realize that all of these materials begin to add up over time. Rather than clogging the landfills with unnecessary items, you should implement a recycling program in your retail store. This is a great way to reduce waste while setting a good example for your employees to follow.

A recycling program is only useful if your store's employees follow it. Set up individual bins in a convenient location and inform your workers about the program. You can then contact some of the various recycling companies in your area to schedule a pickup date. Most recycling companies will be more than happy to set up a pickup schedule with your store. And depending on the type of material, you might even receive some financial compensation for your recycling efforts.

Lighting

Store owners should also examine their current lighting situation. Does your store use energy-hogging incandescent bulbs to illuminate the floor? If so, try swapping them out for LED or CFL bulbs. Both of these are energy-efficient alternatives that will reduce your monthly electric bill while lasting longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. It's a common assumption than incandescent light bulbs are the best choice simply because they are the cheapest. While they typically cost less than LEDs and CFLs, incandescent bulbs burn out faster and use far more energy.

Of course, you can also bring in natural light to help illuminate your retail store as well. Try pulling back the curtains so the sunlight beams through the windows. This isn't a suitable replacement for overhead lighting, but it will help to illuminate your store without the use of electricity.