Businesses are important in any area. They generate economic activity that helps towns and cities grow. They offer products and services that provide convenience to locals. However, many do not realise that they also serve as a significant voice in social affairs.
Businesses can work together to advance policies or projects. They can legitimately influence government action for the benefit of everyone. Below is a rundown of some of the best projects they can advocate for.
Retaining walls
Retaining wall systems are constructed to support the soil to prevent erosion and stabilise land slopes. These rigid walls support the soil to avoid landslides that may cause accidents and disrupt traffic and economic activity in an area. Businesses in areas with challenging topographies should consider banding together to push for construction projects that help prevent tragic landslides.
It is better to prevent problems than to deal with the aftermath. Properly built retaining walls and similar infrastructure help ensure continuous business operations. They also allow cities to avoid spending public funds on clearing and reconstruction operations after heavy rains and flooding.
Accessibility upgrades for PWDs
Around 11% of the adult population suffers from some form of mobility disability. It is commendable for businesses to advance public works projects that help PWDs. These projects include upgrading roads, pathways, sidewalks, and public buildings. They do not only help those with mobility challenges; they also help make it easy for customers to go to business establishments.
Many of those who have accessibility problems are elderly pensioners. Others are well supported by their families. They can become customers in various establishments. Helping them move around is good for businesses. They can become patrons of grocery stores or regulars at diners. They can also buy their medicines from pharmacies or frequent spas.
Energy efficiency projects
Businesses can help promote energy efficiency in the localities where they operate. This is important given the ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges affecting everyone. For example, businesses can propose the replacement of incandescent-based public lighting with LED lights. Businesses can support the wider use of solar energy systems.
Local companies can also push for policies that allow them to earn tax credits or discounts. They can work with their legislative representatives to adopt a policy of getting subsidies or tax refunds as they upgrade to more energy-efficient equipment, building components, and processes.
Landscaping and beautification projects
This may sound superficial and unnecessary, but the appearance of a city can also affect business activity. People are inherently drawn to aesthetically pleasing things. They are more likely to go out if they see attractive cityscapes. Attractive outdoor spaces stimulate tourism and spending. More business activities happen in places that look bright and perky.
Businesses can help influence public infrastructure planning and policies for the better. Doing this does not only help ordinary people or local residents, but it also helps commercial establishments, as they point local governments to needs that may have been ignored by the authorities.
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