How to Go Green As a Corporation

Historically, corporations have often valued financial profits over environmental concerns. However today, early in the 21st century, many corporations are concerned about making their operations more green. As public concern about the environment grows, greening your corporation can be a good marketing strategy. But it can also be good for your bottom line; many green strategies can also help your company save money.

Instructions

1. Evaluate your current impact on the environment. Consider your building, office needs, manufacturing, food and employee transportation.

2. Change the simplest problems first. Start to green your office with simple steps such as recycling paper and aluminum, switching to cloth towels and ceramic mugs in your kitchen, and changing to CFL light bulbs. If you manufacture goods, consider changing the shape of your packaging to reduce the amount of plastic you use. To reduce the impact of your employee transportation, offer incentives to encourage employees to carpool or take public transit.

3. Take long-term steps to reduce your environmental impact. Improve the energy efficiency of your office buildings to meet the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building standards. Switch to recycled or reusable packaging for your products. Create a paperless office. For employees whose work can be accomplished at a distance, offer telecommuting options.

4. Become carbon neutral. Power your buildings from renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. Rebuild any habitats that have been damaged by your corporate activities.

References

• CNN Money: 4 Ways to Go Green