Sustainability Starts at Work: What’s the Most Impactful Green Initiative in Your Workplace?

At BGSF, we believe real change begins with small, consistent efforts—and that includes how we show up for the planet at work. This Earth Month, we shined a light on the powerful green initiatives being implemented in workplaces everywhere and celebrated the collective impact of sustainability in action.

To keep the conversation going, we asked a simple question:

Examining the Results

Less Commuting, More Remote Work (55%)

The biggest winner in our poll was the shift toward remote work. As more companies embrace flexible work options, fewer employees are commuting to the office, resulting in a significant reduction in carbon emissions. In fact, research has shown that cutting out the daily commute can substantially lower a company’s overall environmental impact.

The benefits of remote work extend beyond just lowering emissions; it also helps reduce office resource consumption, like heating, cooling, and office supplies. This shift is a perfect example of how flexibility in workplace policies can support both the workforce and the planet. By reducing commutes and adopting hybrid or fully remote models, companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while improving employee work-life balance.

Recycling Programs (28%)

Recycling initiatives are a staple in sustainability efforts, and for good reason. Many workplaces have embraced recycling programs to reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize landfill use. Whether it’s paper, plastics, metals, or even electronics, recycling keeps valuable materials in circulation and helps reduce the environmental burden of waste disposal.

Incorporating recycling into daily routines not only saves resources but also sets a green precedent for employees to follow at home and in their communities. Simple actions like providing designated bins, educating employees on proper sorting, and promoting paperless options can go a long way in fostering a culture of sustainability.

Energy-saving Systems (13%)

Energy efficiency is a game-changer for any organization looking to reduce its environmental footprint. Many companies have adopted energy-saving systems to cut down on their electricity usage, save money, and reduce carbon emissions. This includes things like LED lighting, motion-sensing lights, programmable thermostats, and energy-efficient appliances.

By optimizing energy consumption, businesses aren’t just contributing to sustainability—they’re also driving operational efficiency and long-term cost savings. It’s a win-win for both the environment and the bottom line. These systems make it easier for organizations to monitor energy use and identify opportunities for improvement, helping them stay on track with their sustainability goals.

Eco Sourcing & Materials (4%)

While this received the smallest percentage of votes, it’s still a critical part of the sustainability conversation. Eco sourcing focuses on selecting sustainable, renewable, and ethically sourced materials for products, packaging, and business operations. By opting for environmentally friendly materials—whether in construction, packaging, or the products themselves—companies can help reduce deforestation, pollution, and waste.

Additionally, eco sourcing encourages businesses to engage with suppliers who are equally committed to sustainability, creating a ripple effect that influences the entire supply chain. From paper products made from recycled materials to sourcing fair-trade goods, this initiative aligns businesses with broader environmental and ethical standards.

The Bottom Line: Every Initiative Matters

At BGSF, we believe that every step, no matter how small, counts when it comes to sustainability. Whether it’s participating in a recycling program, switching to energy-efficient systems, enabling remote work, or choosing eco-friendly materials, these efforts create a lasting, positive impact on the environment and can help foster a culture of sustainability within your organization.

We’d love to hear from you! What other green practices has your company adopted? Together, we can make every month Earth Month. 🌎