SmallBusinessNewz

Going green is becoming quite trendy it seems, and luckily it is a noble trend, and one that can have an impact on the world we live in.

Back around Earth Day, Business.gov launched some tools and tips to help small businesses go green, and now they're touting "take-back" programs to help businesses impact both the environment and their bottom line.

The site offers the following description for take-back programs:

Take-back programs give manufacturers the physical responsibility for products or packaging at the end of their useful lives. By accepting used products, manufacturers can acquire low-cost feedstock for new manufacturing or remanufacturing activities, and offer a value-added service to the buyer.  Many companies, such as Xerox, have made take-back an essential part of their business operations.  Currently, most take-back programs in the U.S. are voluntary, while legislation in many European countries requires manufacturers to take responsibility for the waste costs associated with their products and packaging.

"Recycling and take-back programs, a form of business recycling, give companies the chance to become eco friendly," says Nancy Sternberg, program manager for the Business Gateway Initiative.

Ideal products for these programs are products that come in recyclable packaging, have a limited usability lifespan, have energy value (such as batteries), or have parts that can be refurbished.

"This is such a popular topic for business owners that we wanted to provide businesses with the resources they need to learn more. The launch of our green site is the perfect forum to accomplish this," added Sternberg.

To read some case studies and get a look at more of their resources, go to Business.gov.