When you think of green tech, you probably think of low-energy light bulbs, solar and wind power, reusable batteries and electric cars. But did you know that hosted VoIP falls into the same category? It’s not obvious from the outside, but a business phone system structured on Voice over Internet Protocol, or VoIP, reflects the reduce, reuse and recycle mantra.
Green Cloud Technologies, like Hosted VoIP, Help Your Business Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Reduce Your Business Carbon Footprint
When using a cloud-based VoIP solution, businesses don’t need to host and maintain expensive hardware. Instead, VoIP providers group their servers together in multiple locations. Because they’re handling multiple clients, they can keep them close together in climate-controlled environments.
They can be efficient with their server use and even attain net zero energy use by balancing their energy needs with energy produced from renewable, no-emission sources. In turn, this means all their clients’ VoIP is net zero, too.
Additionally, like any green cloud technologies, VoIP reduces paper file requirements. With digital faxing methods available, companies no longer need to keep physical copies of all documents. Think of the trees and resources you save by not having to purchase reams of paper and ink cartridges.
VoIP is also an excellent tool for remote teams. As a result, the same environmental benefits of telecommuting are reinforced with cloud VoIP. Remote employees result in fewer cars on the road commuting and less electrical output at the office.
All of this means you have reduced your business’ carbon footprint without having to spend on anything other than VoIP service. In fact, because VoIP is typically cheaper than on-premises systems, you’re saving money and the environment at the same time!
Reuse Your Eco-friendly Phones
VoIP keeps things simple: Setup is easy, and you can just plug and play most VoIP phones, which are specialty phones that make and receive calls via the Internet through your office's Internet connection. There’s little reason to ditch your existing VoIP desk phones for new hardware when switching from on-premise to hosted PBX. Reuse the phones you have! When it’s time for an upgrade, look for compatible eco-friendly phones.
Recycle Old Technology and Equipment
When you do upgrade, don’t just toss your old hardware in the dumpster. There are a lot of ways to sustainably dispose of old equipment. You can either sell, donate or recycle. The choice is up to you!
We know that reducing your carbon footprint, finding eco-friendly products and recycling old tech can seem like one more thing on your endless to-do list. However, as we’ve discussed in this blog, it’s far simpler than you may have realized!