- 13 reads
We are pleased to profile the companies and organizations that lead by example in operating their businesses and organizations. The “Lead by Example” profile series is focused on sharing information to inspire and empower decision makers to take action in their own facilities. The information in profiles like this one have come from research and survey outreach focused on four primary areas of sustainability measures:
#1: Waste Removal – (e.g. Recycling)
#2: Climate Control – (e.g. Programmable Thermostats)
#3: Illumination – (e.g. Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology)
#4: Renewable Power – (e.g. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panels)
#5: Other Measures: …
The intention of the four primary areas of focus is to start with the easiest and lowest cost initiatives and move towards the higher level of commitment and larger impact energy and CO2 savings measures.
Company/Organization Highlights:
The Climate Trust (www.climatetrust.org/) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to fighting climate change. Its mission is “to provide expertise, financing, and inspiration to accelerate innovative and effective climate solutions that endure.” Working with governments, utilities, and large businesses, the Climate Trust designs offset projects and programs and advises the creation of climate laws and regulations in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the long-term. The Climate Trust is also “walking the talk” by making sustainable efforts at its office to lessen its impact on the environment.
Lead by Example Initiatives:
#1: Waste Removal – Recycling: YES + Compost
#2: Climate Control – Programmable Thermostats: YES
#3: Illumination – Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology: NOT YET–-Currently have CFLS, waiting on building management to implement this requested change.
#4: Renewable Power – Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panels: Do not own the building.
#5: Other Measures: Offer incentives to employees who bike, walk, or commute via bus--no one in the office drives to work. Smart Cars via Car to Go are used for work-related trips.
Please note that for #3: Illumination, organizations are now beginning to review the savings benefits of LED tubes and fixtures over traditional fluorescent tubes and other types of lighting. Challenges to date have included the reliability of imported products, and some U.S. LED manufacturers, such as Independence LED (www.IndependenceLED.com), have proactively developed educational “LED Boot Camp” programs and provided samples and cost-effective financing programs.
Overall, the “Green” mantra of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle holds true after multiple decades, and new trends towards “Buy Local” are also gaining traction. Domestic and regional purchasing helps reduce the carbon footprint of transportation and also helps create more American jobs. Learn more through the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies - BALLE - (www.bealocalist.org)
