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.