More and more, consumers are actively seeking to support companies that integrate sustainable practices into day-to-day business, meeting the needs of their profession without compromising the needs of future generations. Every industry is witnessing the emergence of green leaders who are attracting customers specifically because they have made a commitment to employing environmentally and socially responsible practices.

The Green Bride Guide Green Wedding Directory has assigned a leaf rating to each listed business based on that business’s environmental practices. In order to qualify for the Directory, your business must have at least one green leaf. Below are some tips, pulled from our ratings system, that can help you green your business and increase your rating.

1. Have an environmental mission statement. Many companies are claiming to have adopted “green” practices as a marketing strategy, but since there is no standard for using this term, it can be applied to almost anything. Having a mission statement that explicitly outlines your environmental commitment gives consumers confidence that you are not “green washing” and keeps employees focused on your company’s core values. Building into your mission a commitment to donate a portion of sales to charity is another great way to showcase your social responsibility.
2. Sell handmade items. Every time you make a purchase from a small-scale, independent artist you are supporting a small business. Handmade items create relatively less waste and pollution than mass-produced ones, and small businesses generally put more resources back into the community than large-scale industries.
3. Get approved by one or more of the following trusted providers. Being certified by, or partnered with, a recognized green business organization allows you to access to a network of supportive resources to help your business grow within the green community, and gives your business credibility. The Green Bride Guide currently works with the following trust providers. If you would like to see an organization added to this list, email Support@greenbrideguide.com

   -BCorp   -Green Hotels Association
   -BnBScape   -Green Restaurant Association
   -Green America   -Green Globe
   -Demeter Certified Biodynamic   -Green Seal
   -Fair Trade Federation   -Rainforest Alliance

4. Use 100% post-consumer waste (PCW) paper, paper products, and packaging. Only 100% PCW paper is made entirely from used paper and fibers that have been cleansed and de-inked, and would otherwise end up in a landfill. This process uses 45% less energy and creates half the waste of the traditional papermaking process. Well-intentioned businesses may look for a recycling symbol on a box of paper, but this is an unregulated designation. Purchasing products labeled as 100% PCW ensures you are using papers with the least impact. If 100% is not available, look for options with as much PCW content as possible.
5. Use biodegradable cleaners. Using natural, biodegradable cleaning products reduces your exposure to harsh toxins and other chemicals, and reduces the introduction of these substances into the environment.
6. Buy carbon offsets for company travel and shipping. Car and air travel create greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide. When these activities cannot be reduced, purchasing carbon offsets helps mitigate their environmental impact. Carbon offset purchases fund various types of greenhouse gas emission reduction projects, such as alternative energy creation and reforestation. For more information on how to offset your carbon use check out Brighter Planet.
7. Use compact-fluorescent (CFL) or LED lights. Though CFL and LED lights both have a higher purchase price than standard incandescent bulbs, they last significantly longer and use much less energy. CFL and LED bulbs can replace standard bulbs in most fixtures.
8. Reduce energy consumption (and costs) in one or more of the following ways:
   • Purchase Energy Star appliances.
   • Work in an LEED certified building.
   • Have your utility company perform a free energy audit.
9. Power your office by alternative energy. In many areas of the country you can sign up to purchase “green power” from your current utility provider. Green power is generated from renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, geothermal, hydropower and plant matter. Purchasing green power increases your electric bill by a small percentage, which is used to purchase clean energy that is fed into the electrical grid.
   Is my business in the Green Power Network?
10. Use public transportation, drive an alternative fuel or hybrid vehicles, or bike. Any of these three methods of transportation will reduce the carbon footprint of your business and highlight your environmental commitment.
11. Recycle outside the box. In addition to recycling everything that can be recycled, think green when buying or replacing items. Consider purchasing used or vintage office furniture instead of brand new pieces. Choose longer lasting items, such as CFL or LED light bulbs.
12. Utilize green web hosting. Green web hosts are companies that take part in a variety of activities, such as using renewable energy, planting trees, or buying carbon offsets and renewable energy certificates to reduce or mitigate the environmental cost of running their servers and infrastructure.