Town of Colma

Be Green

  1. Residents
  2. Be Green
  3. Green Resources

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.
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