Greening Your Business

Going "Green" with your business (or at home) Can Increase Profits and Reduce Global Warming Pollution. Following this plan will, over time, save money and increase profits.

1. Audit your energy use and eliminate waste

• Change light bulbs to energy efficient light fixtures, like LED and CFCs
• Change thermostat settings to a maximum of 68 in winter (55 when unoccupied), or minimum of 74 in summer (80 when unoccupied); keep windows closed and covered in the hottest months; caulk windows and doors and install weather stripping before winter.
• Install Energy Star rated HVAC and other appliances
• Install insulated windows – vinyl or wood
• Contract with a clean energy supplier or purchase at a contracted price to guard against fluctuations

2. Make Smart Purchases in Bulk

• Investigate quantity quotes for Energy Star products, products made of recycled materials, or products which have (or could have) a recycling market.

3. Trim your water use

• Install Water Sense rated toilets and faucets
• Ban non-reusable plastic water bottles
• Require reusable containers for all beverages

4. Require recycling

• Supply bins for employee recycling:
  • Glass
  • Plastic
  • Office paper
• Purchase paper and other materials made of recycled products, or which can be recycled, and products with minimal packaging.

5. Use green cleaning products and require janitorial contracts to provide these products in washrooms and to use these products when cleaning onsite.

6. Manage a vehicular motor pool and purchase only vehicles which have the highest mileage possible for the required use; utilize CNG and alternative fuels when possible.

7. When remodeling or building new facilities, use only materials which are “green certified”

• Sustainable forest products
• Low VOC paints, flooring, wall covering
• Use insulation with high ratings for efficiency and health

8. Provide incentives for employees to save fuel and reduce greenhouse emissions

• Set up a carpool matching program and parking incentives for carpoolers
• Provide tax free incentives for employees who drive hybrid or high mileage vehicles, ride busses or bikes, or walk
• Provide opportunities for telecommuting or flex scheduling

9. Support Local Action

• Participate in opportunities to provide feedback to local government officials
• Serve on local boards and authorities that can create change