Industry Buzz: Simple Ways to Go Green

I’d like to think that the health and fitness industry has, at its core, a social component. After all, we’re in the people business, helping our customers lose weight, improve their self-esteem and celebrate life through movement.

Because of that natural social component, it would make sense that businesses in the industry be concerned with not only their members’ well being, but their community’s well being as a whole. Earth Day provides a great opportunity for clubs to showcase that concern, and get involved on a deeper level.

An annual event, this year’s Earth Day theme was “green cities,” and companies big, small and in between showcased their support. For example, Apple launched a video featuring its CEO, Tim Cook, explaining the company’s green initiatives and its efforts to do more to positively affect the environment.

There are countless articles discussing the benefits of going green — such as long-term cost savings and customer loyalty — which Club Solutions has touched on. If your club hasn’t already incorporated green practices into its business model, here are eight simple things you can do to become greener, courtesy of Inc.com.

Make green thinking a part of your company culture.
Change light bulbs.
Eliminate plastic bottles.
Do business with green vendors.
Conserve human energy.
Host a fundraising event.
Recycle and reuse.
Use green cleaning products.

Many of these steps are things your health club can easily do at minimal cost to your business. However, even if a cost is involved, the long-term benefits may be worth the initial price.

How did your club celebrate Earth Day?

To read the full Inc.com article, click here.

Rachel Zabonick is the assistant editor for Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@clubsolutionsmagazine.com. Reach out to her about exciting events or programs your club has implemented, or to share the amazing accomplishments of a member.