A practical and inexpensive approach to launching a Business Sustainability Program is not as difficult as one may believe. For optimal efficiency a structured approach should be taken to implement the most cost effective conservation measures in a business. However, the following basic recommendations may be implemented as a start to save money in any business operation.

Become More Energy Efficient

By using less energy you reduce the demand on power plants, which helps the environment while saving up to 50% on your energy bills.

• Contact your local utility (or third party) to arrange for a free (or inexpensive) energy audit. A representative will examine your bill to insure you are on the correct rate schedule.
• Turn off lights and unplug electronics after hours -- computers and other electronics use energy while they're plugged in, even when they're switched off. (Use power strip and you'll only have to through one switch at the end of the day.)
• Set computers to sleep and hibernate when inactive, and restrict the use of screen savers. Screen savers can use over $50 of electricity in a year/computer. Look for power management or energy saving features in your computer software. (Coordinate this energy program with your IT department).
• Use Energy Star office equipment -- most major brands provide Energy Star labeled models

Use Recycled Paper, and Less of It

The average office tosses out about 350 pounds of paper per employee, per year. Reduce your waste and purchase paper with post-consumer recycled content. This can reduce your waste costs and coupled with a recycling program can actually generate revenue.

• Set your printers to print double-sided, or designate a draft tray and fill it with paper that's blank on one side.
• Use copier paper with a minimum of 30 percent post-consumer recycled content where appropriate (100 percent is best!)
• Collect used paper separately for recycling, and coordinate with your building manager and waste hauler to set up a recycling system that works for everyone. Also consider recycling other materials, like aluminum, glass and plastic.
• Stock bathrooms with post-consumer recycled tissue products. Many paper manufacturers use virgin wood for throw-away paper products.

Reduce Water Waste

Using water efficiently today will help ensure that future generations have access to the water they need.

• Install faucet aerators and low-flow toilets
• Check for and repair leaks
• Recycle water if possible
• Landscape for maximum water efficiency

Create a Greener Working Environment

Employees are on the front lines of any sustainability initiatives your company chooses to implement. Participation from all levels of a company is crucial to the success of any business sustainability program.

• Build awareness and create a green team with members from all divisions of your organization to help implement plans and bring new ideas to the table.
• Buy less toxic cleaners to improve indoor air quality and reduce risks to employee health.
• Use Low-VOC Materials (coatings, adhesives, sealants, primers, coverings, etc.)

About the author: Guy J. (Jeff) Hall, LEED AP, is the owner of Sustainable Building Solutions a professional consulting firm located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Jeff Hall can be reached at 757-287-2876, e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by visiting www.sustainva.com.

(Published in the “Virginia Pilot February 21, 2010)