There are a number of easy steps that can be taken by small businesses looking to retool their technology use for smaller carbon footprints and stronger bottom lines, according to Andrea Peiro, writing in a column for Inc.com.
Peiro writes that "social and ecological responsibility extends to all segments of the world population, yet the actions of some groups can have more relevant effects than others. Small businesses are quickly becoming very strong consumers of information technology hardware and as such they have the responsibility to make sustainable choices and drive their preference towards manufacturers that strive to improve the friendliness of their products towards our planet."
Older versions of many common office appliances, such as CRT monitors and business projectors, frequently contain a number of highly dangerous chemicals and require specialized - and expensive - disposal methods. Newer models are much more environmentally friendly.
Peiro adds that laptop PCs are much more energy-efficient than their desktop counterparts, and should generally be used in place of them wherever possible. In addition to being better for the environment, energy-efficient devices cut down on utility costs.
