Green Resources
Why Go Green?
Savings. Save money from energy efficiency, water conservation and reduced garbage service. See the Resources table for more information including rebates!
Conserve Energy
- Replace T-12 lights (magnetic ballasts) with T-8 (electronic ballasts).
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with CFLs.Reduce the number of fixtures and increase lighting efficiency by installing optical reflectors and/or diffusers.Clean dusty lamps every 6-12 months to improve lumen output.
- Use daylight controls, photo sensors and/or dimmable ballasts to lower lights and take advantage of daylight.
- Install motion detector sensors in occasionally occupied areas such as conference rooms and restrooms.
- Look for ENERGY STAR models when purchasing PCs, monitors, printers, fax machines and copiers. They have energy saving features such as a ‘power down’ mode. ENERGY STAR models can reduce annual energy costs by as much as 55%.
- Perform maintenance on HVAC systems at least twice a year; replace air filters and check ducts and pipe insulation for damage.
- Set the thermostat at 78°F for cooling in the summer and 68°F for heating in the winter.
- Develop electronic customer database and consider e-mail promotions instead of paper.
Save Water
- Install low flow toilets (1.3 gallons or less per flush).
- Install aerators on faucets.
- Check for and repair water leaks regularly.
- Review landscaping watering schedule – reduce frequency if possible.
Reduce Waste
- Make sure you have a recycling program and ensure your staff is recycling everything accepted in the program.
- Post recycling signage and regularly check to ensure all paper, cardboard and containers are recycled.
- Give customers the choice of whether or not they want their purchase bagged. Consider offering a small discount to customers who bring their own bag.
- Eliminate unnecessary packaging and reuse packaging for outgoing shipments.
- Donate old or unwanted items instead of landfilling them.
- Recycle toxic materials properly. State law prohibits disposal of batteries, electronics, cell phones, fluorescent tubes and CFLs in the garbage.
- Use and maintain durable supplies and equipment. High quality, long lasting supplies and equipment means lower costs in the long run and less garbage.
Buy Green Products
- Purchase products made with recycled content and less toxic materials.
- Request or require vendors to use recycled content materials and consider making it a company policy to encourage or require a minimum 30% recycled content.