But many businesses that want to switch to 'green electricity' can't easily do so.
Sense Internet, the Leeds based New Media company, has upped the ante in its efforts to become as genuinely carbon neutral as possible.
The company has signed up to Good Energy, "the only 100% renewable energy supplier in the UK" according to Bobby Bowker, Sense's in-house Environmental Officer. 100% of the electricity Good Energy supplies comes from renewable sources such as wind power. A winner of awards for its environmental and ethical practices, Good Energy has received the highest rating from the National Consumer Council in its evaluation of green electricity supplies.
Many of Good Energy's 22,000 customers are homes not businesses. Signing up is quick and simple for the home-owner but for some businesses the decision is not so easy. Explains Good Energy spokesman Hugo House:
"Many businesses are interested in switching to green electricity, but it is often the landlord who is responsible for the energy supply - and they may need some persuading. Or the accounts department dictates that the cheapest is best. Either way, green electricity is not yet reaching all the businesses that want it.
"Sense Internet has overcome these obstacles. They can see the long term environmental benefits of a renewable electricity supply that may cost a little more but certainly doesn't cost the earth."
Says MD Aidan Cook: "There is no reason to be using 'dirty' energy when a 'clean', renewable alternative is available. With our existing high standards on recycling of waste and equipment, and our responsible transport policy, the electricity we use was one of the largest concerns for us in terms of Sense's environmental impact. The switch to totally renewable power for our workplace will make a massive difference to our carbon footprint."
Sense has made great strides to be a leader in carbon neutrality, while helping charities in the process. All staff either cycle, walk or take public transport to work where possible, and Bobby Bowker directs unwanted computer and other equipment to charities, enabling them to benefit financially. "That way we by-pass normal recycling channels and help charities," says Bowker.
Out of a workforce of 29, weekly paper and other office waste has been reduced to just two small waste bins a week, and at home the staff continue the same policy of minimizing waste with home recycling bins.
"We hope the steps we take will encourage other businesses to see that reducing their carbon footprint can be painless," says Cook.