Ten top tips for retail resource efficiency

Your retail business uses many types of resources in its day-to-day operation. There are many steps you can take to reduce retail waste and improve energy and water efficiency.

Try out the following no-cost and low-cost tips to see how much money your business could save:

1. Write an environmental policy for your business that details all the steps you will be taking - see write an environmental policy.
2. Separate wastes, particularly cardboard and plastic, and send them for reuse or recycling.
3. Arrange for returns and unsold products to be sent back to suppliers.
4. Reuse packaging materials such as bubble wrap, boxes and pallets, and crates.
5. Place paper recycling bins next to printers and photocopiers and always use double-sided printing.
6. Consider buying some of your stock items in bulk to reduce packaging costs.
7. Ensure heating, air conditioning, lighting and other equipment is only on when it's needed.
8. Install energy-efficient equipment when old equipment needs replacing.
9. Monitor water use and install water-saving devices such as tap sensors and low-flush toilets.
10. Ensure all staff are trained to use resources efficiently and include relevant issues in induction and refresher training.