xvEPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
www.epa.gov
EPA/180/B-09/001
September 2009
Office of Small Business Programs and Asbestos Small Business Ombudsman
SMART STEPS TO
SUSTAINABILITY
A Guide to Greening Your Small Business
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Office of Small Business Programs and Asbestos Small Business Ombudsman
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Disclaimer. Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark,
manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring
by the United States Government. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or
reflect those of the United States Government, and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes.
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1. Introduction & Overview.
Benefits of Green ing 1
What Makes a Company Sustainable? 2
Green Premium? 2
Guide Overview 4
Step 1. Get Ready 8
Step 2. Get Started 9
Step 3. Set Goals 22
Step 4. Go Green 27
Step 5. Ensure Continual Improvement 28
Waste: Prevention, Reduction and Recycling 31
Purchasing: Environmental Choices & Products 38
Water: Protection, Conservation and Reuse 44
Energy: Efficiency, Conservation and Renewables 46
Transportation: Alternative Options and Vehicles 53
Communicating Your Efforts 58
Defin itions 64
Appendix B 66
Resou rces 66
References 70
TABLE OF CONTENTS i
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EPA s Office of Small Business Programs
congratulates you on picking up this guide.
The fact that you are considering moving
your business past environmental compliance
and into SUStdindbility says much about
your core values and forward thinking. We
hope this guide will help you build a successful
sustainable business.
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section
intro
introduction & overview
The Benefits of Greening Your Business
Environmentally-friendly business practices can yield enormous rewards, both for the environment and the business.
Being green can:
O Save money from reduced waste and increased efficiency.
O Bring peace of mind from reduced concerns about health and safety liability.
O Improve public relations.
O Improve employee pride and morale.
O Attract green consumers.
O Attract motivated employees.
O Differentiate your business from competitors.
O Provide flexibility in uncertain times.
O Minimize risk, financial and otherwise, from the impacts of climate change.
O Demonstrate leadership and commitment.
A number of prominent corporations, driven by consumer awareness and environmental realities, are embracing
the business value of going green. Canon U.S.A., Inc. and Anheuser-Busch have partnered with the EPA Wastewise
Program and significantly reduced their waste. 3M, Caterpillar Inc. and Pfizer Inc. have all joined EPA's Climate
Leaders Program and committed to reducing their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These firms, and small companies
like Picture Graphics and HARBEC Plastics Inc., realize that business success today means not just a healthy bottom
line, but a healthy triple bottom line that takes financial, social, and environ-mental performance into consideration—
the essence of sustainability. Many businesses also believe that they have a responsibility to help their community and
make a positive contribution to the world. The issues and opportunities motivating these corporations can also affect
your business success.
Consider consumer demand. Consumers are increasingly concerned about environmental issues, and the marketplace
for sustainable products and practices continues to grow. As consumers learn more about environmental and health
threats from hazardous chemicals and climate change, they seek companies that reflect their concerns. An increasing
segment of American consumers are highly motivated, well-informed, and concerned about environmental and health
issues. Environmentally aware businesses that have reduced their environmental footprint are better positioned to meet
this market demand.
INTRODUCTION & OVERVIEW 1
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environmental stats
percent of con-
sumers consider
it important that
companies have
good environmental
records
Greening your
business can be a way
to conserve both the
environment and your
financial resources.
Environmental realities are also driving corporate sustainability efforts. There is little
doubt that environmental issues, particularly climate change, are going to alter the
regulatory and market landscape in the near future. Energy-efficient companies will
be better able to navigate these regulatory changes and be better positioned to
weather negative events like energy price spikes.
Consumers are shying away from more toxic products, concerned by media reports of
dangers like chemical compounds leaching from plastic baby bottles. Companies that
have reduced their use of toxic chemicals will enjoy better public relations and be more
likely to thrive over time as such issues continue to drive media reports and public
concerns. These companies can also reduce their potential regulatory costs and liability
as laws focused on hazardous material do not apply to non-hazardous substitutes.
Climate change and toxic chemicals are just two concerns that will affect businesses
in the near future. Other issues, such as unpredictable energy costs, drought and
depleted natural resources, may also significantly impact business success. However,
these challenges offer small business leaders a historic opportunity to make a differ-
ence and turn a profit.
What Makes a Company Sustainable?
The characteristics of a greener, more sustainable business include:
O Incorporates "green thinking" into the company culture.
O Eliminates inefficiencies.
O Minimizes its impact on the environment.
O Streamlines its processes.
O Thinks long-term.
O Evolves and adapts to new information in a changing world.
O Seeks continual improvement.
Green Premium?
Greening has become mainstream. Historical barriers to becoming more sustainable,
like higher costs and low consumer demand, have largely been removed or signifi-
cantly diminished. Today, for example, the federal government offers incentives for
renewable energy and hybrid vehicles; organic product sales continue to grow about
20 percent annually; and green product sales are expected to double over the next two
years.
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real success:
a profile of AJ's Auto Repair
Don't tell the folks at AJ's Auto Repair in Salem, Oregon
that auto repair can't be green. For the past thirty years AJ's
has worked to reduce the environmental impact of almost
every aspect of their operations. Co-founder Robert Anderson
is AJ's leading environmental voice. He believes in the impor-
tance of environmental protection because "we all have a dog
in this fight."
Mr. Anderson knew that any green steps had to be profitable
and feasible. In 1 994, AJ's switched to burning used oil for
heat instead of sending it out for disposal. This not only reduces
waste, but saves the company up to $1 0,000 a year. To keep the
solution from creating problems, the company incorporated the
used oil tanks into workbenches to save valuable floor space and
modified the shop floor for spill containment to prevent possible
leaks from getting into the environment.
Looking out for the environment is part of AJ's corporate culture.
New employees read AJ's environmental handbook and sign a
statement confirming their agreement with AJ's environmental
effort. According to Mr. Anderson, employees "green up" quickly
and are key to finding new environmentally friendly approaches.
For instance, an employee suggested charging the AC systems
with industrial dry nitrogen, a safe gas, rather than releasing
environmentally harmful and expensive freon during leak testing.
This change saves AJ's hundreds of dollars a year and reduces
the negative affect of releasing an ozone-depleting chemical.
Employee buy-in also means that new greening ideas from man-
agement are welcomed and can be tested on the floor to ensure
feasibility.
Although hazardous materials may seem synonymous with auto
repair, AJ's has significantly reduced their use of toxic materials.
AJ's employees use water-based parts washers and biodegrad-
able detergent instead of the hazardous solvents commonly used
in parts washers. This is better for the environment, healthier
for employees, and does not generate a hazardous waste that
requires special handling. A "bird bath" brake washer eliminated
the use of chlorinated solvent brake spray cans and reduced em-
ployee exposure to asbestos. Other instances where alternatives
replaced hazardous materials include innovative uses of common
products like vegetable spray as a lubricant and Milk of Magne-
sia as an anti-seizing compound.
Another element of AJ's success is to work cooperatively with
other organizations. As president of the Northwest Automotive
Trade Association, Mr. Anderson helps green the automotive
industry as a whole and is active with the Portland Pollution
Prevention Outreach Team, a collaborative effort of non-profits,
and state and local government, that certifies Eco-Logical
Businesses. In conjunction with the Oregon Department of Envi-
ronmental Quality (DEQ), AJ's piloted a free program to remove
switches for trunk lights that contain mercury. Since the program
began, AJ's has replaced over 2,500 mercury switches with
a non-toxic ball bearing alternative. The program helps ensure
proper disposal of the toxic mercury and is now a mandatory
pollution prevention program statewide in Oregon and Idaho.
AJ's is careful to avoid greenwashing, making sure they don't
overstate their environmental record. The company web site and
marketing material focus instead on their core repair work. How-
ever, the free publicity from their numerous awards such as the
DEQ Certificate of Excellence, the Governor's Award for Toxics
Use Reduction, the Marion County Recycler of the Year Award,
and the Small Business Environmental Stewardship Award broad-
ens AJ's exposure and brings in additional customers.
So what's the benefit from all this greening? One benefit is
money. An independent evaluation of AJ's environmental efforts
found that over a ten-year period greening had saved the com-
pany over $200,000 from cost savings and increased business
revenue. An intangible but important benefit is that a strong en-
vironmental record appeals to top employees, and the innovative
and cooperative work atmosphere improves productivity. Being
a greener company has also helped AJ's attract new customers.
The first 90 people who came in for the new non-toxic switches
went on to spend over $26,000 in repair services. Bob Ander-
son estimates that 1 8 to 20 percent of new customers choose
AJ's because of the company's commitment to the environment.
Greening works for AJ's and for AJ's customers. As one customer
put it, "Over the years you guys have done a great job and we
really appreciate it."
For more information on AJ's, visit www.ajsautorepair.com.
Disclaimer: EPA does not endorse any commercial company, their products or sen/ices
in any way. By including specific companies, EPA is simply providing information.
INTRODUCTION & OVERVIEW 3
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Small business owners who have been implementing sustainable strategies for decades are seeing these changes
firsthand. Roger Telschow of EcoPrint has noticed an increased awareness of environmental issues in his customers.
Bob Bechtold of HARBEC Plastics Inc. finds that getting a loan for renewable energy projects is much easier now than
it was years ago. Many companies are finding that when the payback from greening initiatives is taken into account,
there is no "green premium."
While many of the businesses profiled in this guide are benefiting from the growing consumer demand for environ-
mentally-friendly business practices, they are also experiencing intangible advantages, like free marketing and positive
public perception. Fit 'n Furry's greening initiatives were highlighted on a San Francisco television news show, and AJ's
Auto has been featured in numerous articles. The sustained success of these green small businesses and many others
like them is evidence that greening can and does bring in dollars.
Guide Overview
Smarf Sfeps fo Sustainability provides small business owners and managers with practical advice and tools to implement
sustainable and environmentally-preferable business practices that go beyond compliance. The guide offers a frame-
work to strategically green your business and presents realistic opportunities to improve environmental performance.
To get your business on track to sustainability, Smarf Sfeps will help you:
O Understand the impact your business has on the environment.
O Develop and implement a strategy to minimize this impact.
O Explore opportunities to become more sustainable.
O Share your sustainability efforts with your customers.
O Continually strive for improvement.
Section 2 presents a five step greening strategy. Optional Charts can help tailor your approach to fit your business.
Section 3 discusses opportunities for improving your environmental performance by area of environmental impact and
offers guidance on communicating your greening efforts to the public.
Definitions of terms you may be unfamiliar with are in Appendix A.
Appendix B lists additional resources.
The journey to sustainability is unique for every business, but lessons can be learned from those who have already
forged a greener profitable path. Throughout this guide, real world greening stories from small businesses in a variety
of industries, including automotive, pet care, dental care and more, are highlighted.
4 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Step 1
Get Ready
Assess Your
Compliance
Engage Your
Employees
Find Support
Build Your
Knowledge
Plan
Appropriately
Steps to Sustainability
Step 2
Get Started
Define Your Green
Vision
Choose Your
Approach
Assess Your
Impact
StepS
Set Goals
Select and
Prioritize Goals
Plan
Implementation
Step
Go Green
Turn Your
Strategy into
Action
Step 5
Ensure
Continual
Improvement
Measure Progress
Communication
Update Goals
and Activities
Moving Forward
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Creating a greener business means establishing
an awareness of your company s impact on
the environment and fostering a culture that
minimizes this impact. A strategic approach
*o greening puts your business on the path
to sustainability ana provides the flexibility to
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This section presents a five-step strategy to help you create a more environmentally-responsible company and lay the
foundation for a sustainable future.
After completing the five step strategy to sustainability, how can you be sure you've achieved success and are a more
sustainable business? When:
O "Green thinking" is part of your company culture.
O Minimization of environmental impact is just the way business is done.
O Green is routine.
O You are committed to seeking a better way.
Here's a quick overview of the five steps:
5et Ready helps you lay the groundwork for success.
5et Started helps you decide how green you want your business to be, select the best approach to get there,
and assess the impact your business has on the environment. The Emerging Issues and Motivations Charts will help
identify issues and motivators that influence these choices, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Chart captures
your business' impacts on the environment.
oals helps you choose your greening goals and identify the actions to achieve them. Use the Goals Charts
to help identify and prioritize goals.
Green presents a discussion on what to keep in mind as you move forward.
Continual Improvement discusses how to make sure your company continues to reduce its environmen-
tal impact and flourish at the same time. This final step includes ideas for measuring progress and updating goals.
f STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 7
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Step 1. Get Ready
Step 1 will help you:
O Assess your compliance.
O Engage your employees.
O Find support.
O Build your environmental knowledge.
O Plan appropriately.
Assess Your Compliance
Your first step would be to identify and meet any regulatory requirements. How embarassing to say you are a green
company and then be hit with an environmental violation. Knowing your regulatory requirements can also help you
identify your environmental impact and set goals that reduce the impact and regulatory liability.
Engage Your Employees
Employee buy-in is critical for success. It is your employees who will be responsible for implementing more sustainable
practices. Sustainability may require a cultural shift for your company and that can only happen with the support of your
employees. Share your vision of what you want your business to become with your employees, involve them upfront,
and ask for suggestions on how to green their activities.
Employees may have great ideas on how to reduce environmental impacts and implement your vision. They may
recognize where waste and inefficiencies occur better than upper management. For instance, the employees respon-
sible for trash are probably the best source for ideas on establishing a recycling program. You may find that some
of your employees are already familiar with greening strategies and even practice them at home or have experience
from a previous job.
There are many ways to encourage employee participation. Depending on the size of your business, consider creating
a green team to head up sustainability initiatives. Provide rewards for good ideas and incentives for environmentally-
friendly behavior. Perhaps most important, as the owner or manager, it is vital that you "walk the talk" and demonstrate
green behavior as an example to your employees.
Find Support
There are many sustainable business organizations that can provide information on environmental practices, partner
to strengthen lobbying efforts, and create a network of green product and service providers. If one does not exist in your
area, consider partnering with other small businesses that are going green and support each other with discounts and
advertising. Environmental committees and workgroups in trade associations and other business organizations can also
be helpful, and many local and state regulatory agencies have initiatives to help small businesses go green.
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Build Your Knowledge
Being familiar with environmental issues will help you understand the environ-
mental impact of your businesses and make better decisions for the future. You
can start with the resources in this guide and then build your knowledge by read-
ing some of the many books, articles, and web sites on environmental issues.
Your interests may range from environmental philosophy to technical information
to finding out more about business and the environment. The more informed
you are, the easier it is to develop a successful strategy and stay motivated.
Plan Appropriately
Like any business decision, careful planning can help you gain maximum suc-
cess. If your employees don't share your vision or if you decide to roll out your
greening plan during your busiest time of the year, it's going to be difficult to
make progress. Be sure to allocate sufficient resources to ensure success and
include greening initiatives in your budget planning.
Step 2. G<
Step 2 will help you:
O Create a long-term vision of your sustainable business.
O Choose your approach to greening.
O Identify the environmental impacts of your business.
This step includes several forms that will help you plan strategically. Check the
EPA web site at >sbp/greening.htrr to download forms that can
be filled out electronically. If you print charts from this guide, make sure that you
don't print out the entire document by mistake.
Define Your Green Vision
A clearly defined vision of what you want your business to become will help
you set goals, motivate employees, and gain support from customers. What
does sustainability mean to you? What does an environmentally-friendly version
of your business look like? You may not know the answers to these questions
yet, but Step 2 will help your sustainable business vision become a little clearer.
The EPA offers a variety of voluntary
programs to assist individuals, schools
and businesses reduce their consumption
of resources and environmental impacts.
The Office of Small Business Programs
provides a comprehensive list of EPA
sustainability programs that can help save
resources and reduce utility costs. For
the list, click on the OSBP Greening Your
Business, Partnership Programs site at
www.epa.gov/osbp/greening.htm.
National Sustainability Groups
There are many national groups devoted
to sustainable business; some are focused
sectors. Conduct a web search for
that fit your business and interests.
State and Local Groups
There are many state and loc
local Chambers of Commerce that provide
free assistance on greening. Conduct
a web search or contact your state business
STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 9
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Look at the Environmental Performance Ruler that follows and think about where you want to position your business.
Do you want to pollute less and use fewer resources than companies in the same sector? This will make you a greener
than average company. Maybe you want to be truly sustainable and move towards using only renewable resources,
producing zero waste, and advocating for greening your community. Use the Environmental Performance Ruler to help
guide your vision.
Environmental Performance Ruler
Worse Than
Average
• Higher energy costs
•Serious compliance and
safety issues
• High environmental
liabilities
• Poor public perception
on environment and
sustainability
•May be involved in
litigation
• Big carbon footprint,
non-sustainable natural
resource use, high waste,
and pollution releases
Average
• High energy costs
•Some compliance and
safety issues
• Potential environmental
liabilities
• Neutral to poor public
perception on environment
and sustainability
• Big carbon footprint, non-
sustainable natural
resource use, high waste,
and pollution releases
Greener Than
Average
Sustainable
• Low energy costs
• Few compliance and safety
issues
• No or limited environmental
liabilities
• High public perception on
environment and
sustainability
• Lower carbon footprint,
sustainable natural
resource use, low waste,
low pollution releases
• Renewable energy
•Minimal compliance
and safety issues
•No environmental liabilities
•Viewed as a sustainability
leader
•Carbon neutral, primarily
sustainable natural
resource use, zero waste,
no pollution releases
As you define your vision, consider how outside environmental issues, like regulatory changes, will affect your business.
For instance, if you are a dry cleaner, is your state likely to follow California and phase-out perchloroethylene (PERC)?
Is your local government getting serious about enforcing storm water rules? Also, think about marketplace trends.
Are your customers interested in greener companies or your corporate clients looking to green their supply chain?
Awareness of these issues will better inform your greening decisions. The Environmental and Regulatory Issues Chart
that follows will help you identify relevant outside issues.
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A dry cleaner may fill the chart out like this:
Example Environmental and Regulatory Issues Chart
Environmental and
Regulatory Issues
Climate change
High Energy Prices
New regulations (includ-
ing GHG regulations)
Market pressures
Potential Impact on
Your Company
Net sure, depends OH
regulations
Higher costs
PLFC phase out would
require Hew Machines/
approaches
G/reener consumers
Positive or Negative
Don't know
Neg.
Neg. - high initial cost
Positive - levels playing
field, reduces env. liability,
compliance &. safety
issues
Depends on our response
Level of Concern/
Likelihood
Low /high
Medium /medium
High /not sure
High/medium
Time Period
Short for regs: long term
for env. changes
Not sure
Need to find out more
atout possible state
or federal regulations
and t I'M ing. Research
alternatives
Current? Need to research
trends & look at
response of competition
Here is a chart for you to fill out:
Environmental and Regulatory Issues Chart
Environmental and
Regulatory Issues
Climate change
Potential Impact on
Your Company
Positive or Negative
Level of Concern/
Likelihood
Time Period
High Energy Prices
New regulations (incluc
ing GHG regulations)
Market pressures
Now consider your motivations. What are the top reasons you want to go green? Knowing what is driving your efforts will
help you select goals, set priorities and communicate your vision. Perhaps most importantly, understanding your underlying
motivations will help you know when you have achieved your goals. Use the Motivations Chart on the next page to identify
your most important motivators and the level of importance.
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Motivations Chart
Motivators for Going Green
Personal convictions
Increased profit
Image
Longevity of company
Customer demand
Employee satisfaction
Add value to the community
Desire to be a leader
Expand customer base
Keep up with the competition
Inspire innovation
Cost of Compliance
Environmental Constraints — water shortage
Energy costs
Regulatory concerns
Importance (low, medium, high)
After listing outside environmental issues and identifying motivators, go back to the Environmental Performance Ruler
to see if you want to adjust your desired location on the bar. Then fill out the final Putting It All Together Chart that follows
to summarize your objectives, outside environmental issues, and motivators. If you want to formalize your vision, use this
chart to help write an environmental commitment statement or sustainability policy. You can refer back to this Chart when
setting specific goals and actions.
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Putting It All Together Chart
Vision (where you want to be on the
Environmental Performance Ruler)
Top Environmental and Regulatory Issues
of Concern (in order of priority)
Motivators with highest importance
Write a sentence or two describing your
vision of sustainability and long-term
objectives for the business.
Formal EMS (ISO 14001 style)
Other formal approach
Approach
Greening Guide steps (this publication)
Ad hoc
Other
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You should now have a good idea of where you want to see your company in the long term, the environmental
issues that are likely to affect your company, and the internal values driving your effort.
Choose Your Approach
A successful approach to greening can be simple or complex. Larger organizations may benefit from a formal
approach, while a smaller company can make major improvements with informal policies or an ad hoc style.
There are many approaches in between. What is important is to select the approach that will help you reach your
long-term objectives.
The Environmental Management System (EMS) is a widely used approach that provides a formalized structure for
planning and implementing a comprehensive environmental management program. Many companies, particularly
large multi-nationals, certify their EMS with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Certification
provides credibility, and some companies require their suppliers to be ISO14001 certified. For more information on
EMS and ISO14001 visit ndex.htm. An EMS, even an ISO-certified EMS,
does not automatically make your company green or sustainable. It is just a tool to help you get there.
There are other formalized approaches to greening. For example, EPA Region 9 used elements of The Natural Step
framework to help identify and rank the environmental impacts of their office. Greening can also be a part of another
management approach such as Lean, a business methodology that streamlines manufacturing to eliminate wast and
reduce cost (wv ean). You may prefer a less formal approach. The steps in this guide provide the same
focus on strategic planning and continual improvement as an EMS, but are simpler and less formal. If you decide to
go with a formal EMS, you can still use the steps presented here to help identify your impacts, objecties and targets.
Assess Your Impact
Once you know where you want to go, you need to understand the impact your business has on the environment
so that you can identify the actions with the greatest benefit for the environment. Don't be intimidated by this exercise.
Nobody knows your business as well as you, and you probably already have a good understanding of your largest
impacts. Environmental permits or regulations that apply to your business usually indicate areas of environmental im-
pact. For example, an air permit means that you are releasing air pollution. Use the Environmental Impact Assessment
Chart below to identify the environmental impacts of your business, and evaluate the relative contribution of all your
business activities to your overall environmental impact.
Environmental Impact Assessment Chart—Instructions
This Chart will help you identify the specific environmental impacts of your company. It already includes information
on impacts for common business functions. You need to customize it to reflect your company's unique situation.
The individual columns are described below.
1. Activity Area - The Chart is organized by functional area—transportation, office, warehouse, manufacturing,
business processes, and building and grounds. Business process refers to non-manufacturing processes that are specific
to your business like food preparation in a restaurant, the working area of an auto repair shop, or a retail store's sales
operations. You will need to customize the rows under Business Process to fit your business.
14 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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^vironmental Imi
The links under Sector-specific Resources
can help identify impacts from your specific
industry.
2. Environmental Impacts: This column
captures how each activity area can impact
the environment. Air and water pollution,
waste, toxics, habitat loss, use of natural re-
sources, and GHGs are typical environmen-
tal impacts. Impacts can be direct, such as
emissions from the tailpipe of your delivery
van or indirect, such as GHG emissions from
the power plant that produces your electricity
or toxics released during the manufacturing
of the bleached white paper you purchase.
3. Impacts of Your Company: Describe,
or if possible quantify, each activity's impact
at your company. For example, under Paper
use, list the main uses for paper in your
company and how much you use. You might
enter "printing reports and invoices, two
reams a day." Alternatively, under Delivery
services, you might record "two gas-powered
company vans that drive about 1 00 miles a
week with an average mileage of 20 miles
per gallon (MPG)." Permits or other regula-
tory requirements will tell you about some of
these impacts. If possible, include costs. This
information will help you set and evaluate
goals so be as detailed as possible.
4. Impact Contribution: What is the
relative contribution of each activity area
to the overall environmental impact of your
company? You may want to have a short
description for the contribution and then
rate it as: very low, low, medium, high or
very high. Consider factors such as:
Air pollution—The release of harmful matter like particulates, and gases
like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic
compounds into the air. Ozone, a harmful air pollutant, is created by sunlight
interacting with other air pollutants.
Erosion—The wearing away of soil. The increased flow of stormwater from
impervious surfaces like rooftops and pavement erodes land, scours stream
banks, adds silt that carries contaminants to water bodies and dearades habitat.
GHG emissions—The release of heat-trapping gases such as carbon
dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide into the air. Greenhouse gases keep the
earth warm, but increased concentrations contribute to climate change.
Water pollution—Sewage, fertilizers, pesticides, oil, silt, and other pollutants
that are discharged, spilled or washed into water, including contaminants from
air pollution that settle onto land and are washed into water bodies.
Habitat loss Loss and degradation of the natural conditions that animals
and plants need to survive. Caused by activities like development, deforestation,
and contamination from stormwater runoff and other pollution. It can occur
directly from activities like road building, or indirectly, for example contamina
tion from vehicle exhaust.
Toxics—Chemicals which pose a severe health risk such as chlorine, formalde
hyde, and dioxins. Toxics can be poisonous, cause cancer, and harm reproduc
tive systems, and may be present in pollution, manufacturing by-products, and
Resource use—Using, extracting or harvesting natural and manufactured
resources can deplete ecosystems and destroy habitat. Associated activities
like transportation and processing can cause air and water pollution. Excessive
withdrawal of water from lakes and rivers, or aquifers can damage habitats
by drying wetlands, creating low flow rivers, and stopping natural springs.
Hazardous waste—Waste that is considered toxic or flammable. Because
it is strictly regulated, there are formal regulatory definitions of hazardous waste
Waste disposal—Removing and eliminating discarded materials. Disposal
of non-toxic waste material has environmental impacts from transportation,
landfill space requirements and leaching, or incineration.
Energy use—The production and use of energy from fossil fuels like coal
and petroleum creates air pollution (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide,
and toxics like mercury and benzene) and hazardous solid waste (from coal)
and destroys habitat.
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O Volume or size (e.g., amount of trash generated, or number of miles driven by company vehicles).
O Toxicity (a very hazardous chemical versus a non-hazardous chemical).
O Direct releases to the environment (e.g., delivery truck exhaust, releases of an ozone depleting substance,
or discharge of industrial wastewater to the sewer).
O The potential for harm, either to employees or the environment (the high possibility of gasoline spills
from refueling a lawn mower, or asthma from air pollution from diesel trucks).
O Indirect harm to the environment (air pollution from the generation of electricity or the loss of habitat
from road building).
O Frequency of an activity (e.g., pesticide applications probably occur infrequently, business travel may occur
frequently, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) use occurs very frequently).
1. Activity Area
Employee commuting
Environmental Impact Assessment Chart
2. Environmental Impacts
3. Impacts of your
company
4. Impact Contribution
TRANSPORTATION
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
Habitat loss
Water pollution
Business travel
Air pollution
GHG emissions
Energy use
Habitat loss
Water pollution
Shipping/receiving
Air pollution
GHG emissions
Energy use
Resource use
Waste disposal
Water pollution
16 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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, „ . . „ _ _ . . 3. Impacts of your . . _ ..
1 . Activity Area 2. Environmental Impacts 4. Impact Contribution
company
Delivery services/fleets
Air pollution
GHG emissions
Energy use
Habitat loss
Water pollution
OFFICE AREA
Paper use
Solid waste
Lighting
Air pollution
GHG emissions
Habitat loss
Resource use
Toxics
Waste disposal
Water pollution
Water use
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
Waste disposal
Water pollution
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
Habitat loss
Toxics
STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 17
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1. Activity Area
HVAC
2. Environmental Impacts
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
Toxics
Water pollution
Water use
3. Impacts of your
company
4. Impact Contribution
Other equipment
(copiers, computers, etc.]
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
Habitat loss
Toxics
Water pollution
Water use
Habitat loss
Resource use
Water pollution
Purchasing
Air pollution
Resource use
Toxics
Waste disposal
Water pollution
Cleaning
Air pollution
Resource use
Toxics
Waste disposal
Water pollution
Water use
18 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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, „ . . „ _ _ . . 3. Impacts of your . . _ ..
1 . Activity Area 2. Environmental Impacts 4. Impact Contribution
company
MANUFACTURING
Paper use
Solid waste
Hazardous waste
Lighting
HVAC
Air pollution
GHG emissions
Habitat loss
Resource use
Toxics
Waste disposal
Water pollution
Water use
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
Waste disposal
Water pollution
Air pollution
Toxics
Waste disposal
Water pollution
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
Habitat loss
Toxics
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
Toxics
Waste disposal
Water use
STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 19
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1 . Activity Area 2. Environmental Impacts ' 4. Impact Contribution
company
Water use
Raw material
Releases
Habitat loss
Resource use
Water pollution
Air pollution
GHG emissions
Resource use
Waste disposal
Toxics
Water pollution
Air pollution
GHG emissions
Habitat loss
Water pollution
BUSINESS PROCESS
Meetings
Other
Energy use
GHG emissions
Resource use
Waste disposal
BUILDING AND GROUNDS
Water use
Habitat loss
Resource use
Water pollution
20 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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1. Activity Area
Mowing, leaf blowing, etc.
2. Environmental Impacts
Air pollution
Energy use
GHG emissions
3. Impacts of your
company
4. Impact Contribution
Storm water run off — roof
Erosion
Habitat loss
Water pollution
Storm water run off - paved Erosion
areas Habitat loss
Water pollution
Pest control
Habitat loss
Water pollution
Toxics
Section 3, Opportunities, also gives an overview of common environmental impacts from business practices in the introduc-
tion of each topic area.
The government develops environmental regulations to ensure that the most significant environmental impacts are
monitored, controlled and minimized. If any of your business activities require a permit, these activities most likely have
a significant impact on the environment. Explore EPA's online compliance assistance resources for small businesses at
htm to better understand the regulations that affect your industry,
to make sure you are not violating any regulations, and to identify impacts from your business.
There are industry-specific resources that will help you identify impacts. The web-based Compliance Assistance Centers that
EPA developed in partnership with third parties have information on specific sectors such as construction, healthcare, and
transportation ( centers/) and pollution prevention resources often include information
on environmental impacts (w\ /.epa.gov/p2/pubs/p2rx.html). You can also check with your local or state regulatory agency
or trade association. Some voluntary environmental programs, like EPA's Waste Wise, also provide tools and information to
help identify environmental impacts.
STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 21
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With a better understanding of the impacts of your business on the environment, you may wish to review the Charts
from Step. 2 Get Started to see if you want to make any changes to your green vision.
Step 3. Set Goals
Step 3 will help you:
O Identify SMART goals.
O Select and prioritize goals that will help you reach your objectives.
O Define responsibilities.
A clear set of goals can turn the vision you developed in Step 2 into reality. The right goals will help determine the
future direction of your company, and motivate your employees. So how do you choose the right goals? For starters,
make sure your goals are SMART: specific, measurable, actionable, relevant, and time-bound.
Specific. Perhaps you envision a carbon neutral company. This is a specific long-term goal. To reach it, you will also
need to set specific short-term goals. An initial short-term goal could be to measure your GHG emissions to determine
a starting point, and a subsequent goal might be to reduce the company's arbon footprir by 1 0% a year.
Measurable. If you can't measure your goal, it is hard to know when it has been reached or how to evaluate your
efforts. Consider the difference between a goal to be a green company and a goal to use 1 00% renewable energy.
Without a precise definition, it is hard to measure "greenness," but the source of your energy is easy to measure.
Attainable. Your goals need to be ambitious enough to make a difference but not impossible to achieve. The right
balance will motivate your employees without discouraging them. You may want to be a zero-emissions company within
one year, but it is probably impractical. A more realistic goal is to cut emissions by 20 percent in the first year with zero-
emissions as a long-term goal.
Relevant. Your goals need to relate to what you are trying to achieve. Make sure that your goals will meaningfully
reduce your environmental impact and align with your vision.
Time-bound. Goals need to have a defined timeframe. A deadline provides incentive to take action and move
forward. Choose realistic timelines for your goals, and include milestones and periodic assessments to measure your
progress and stay motivated.
Select and Prioritize Goals
1. Review Your Long-term Business Objectives
Where do you want your business to be in five or ten years? Before deciding on your goals, identify long-term business
objectives to ensure that your goals will help you achieve your vision. Review the Putting It All Together Chart from Step
2 and then write several long-term objectives in the space provided below. Be sure the objectives are specific and clear
enough for others to understand.
22 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Long-term Business Objectives
2. List Goals and Activities
Taking your long-term objectives into account, list all the sustainability goals you can think of on a separate piece
of paper, you will prioritize the goals in the next step. You may want to first read through Section 3, Opportunities for
ideas. Also discuss the goals with your employees and review them against the SMART list to make sure you have goals
that will take you where you want to be.
Once you have identified goals, list the activities needed to reach the goal. The Environmental Impact Assessment
Chart from Step 2 can help with this. For example, if your goal is to reduce electricity use by 25 percent, you can use
the Chart to identify where you can get that savings—from lighting, changing a business process to use less energy,
or replacing old inefficient appliances.
3. Prioritize
After listing sustainability goals and activities, focus on the ones that will help achieve your vision for the future, that
are based on your most significant environmental impacts, and that will make the most sense for your business. Choose
the goals that will address the greatest impacts (see impacts from the Environmental Impact Assessment Chart) and
where you can make the biggest strides. For example,
O Do you run a retail store with piles of cardboard packing boxes leftover after a shipment arrives?
Your goals may include working with vendors to find alternatives to cardboard packing boxes, such as reusable
wooden crates, and asking vendors to minimize empty truck moves and transportation of empty crates.
O Is your dry cleaning store using toxic chemicals?
Your goals may include exploring options to become a green cleaner or minimize the amount used.
O Does your restaurant throw away large amounts of food waste daily?
Your goals may include donating or composting food waste.
STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 23
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Like any business decision, you need to consider the costs and benefits of your goals — financial and environmental.
Evaluate your goals based on feasibility, payback period, financial return on investment, and social return on investment.
Think about how much money you are willing to invest in sustainability measures, what changes you can afford to make,
and the effort that will be required from your employees. While it may not be easy to put an exact dollar value on environ-
mental benefits, it might help to think about prioritizing goals in terms of the following grid:
High
BENEFIT
Low
High benefit
Low cost
YES
Low benefit
Low cost
MAYBE
High benefit
High cost
MAYBE-
evaluate
NO Low benefit
High cost
Low
High
COST
You can use the benefit axis to consider benefits to your company or to the environment. Obviously, a project that is low
cost and high benefit for your company or the environment is a good one to choose. But what about a project that is high
cost and has a high benefit for the environment, but a lower benefit for the company? This project may take more thought
before making a decision. Don't automatically dismiss a goal because of the initial cost and be sure to consider intangible
benefits like customer perceptions and employee pride. Analyze the costs over time and factor in all the components, includ-
ing the intangibles, before making a final decision.
When setting priorities, consider which of the possible goals:
O Will make you the most competitive.
O Includes low-hanging fruit, like reducing or recycling office paper, that is important and easy.
O Will have the biggest impact on the environment or on your bottom line, like installing an on-site wind turbine.
24 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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O Contributes to the growth or longevity of your business.
O Has other benefits, like toxics reduction that also improves worker safety and reduces compliance issues.
O Relate to your vision and long-term objectives.
Based on your priorities, select the goals that you want to focus on and enter them in the Environmental Goals chart below.
Environmental Goals Chart
Goal 1
Timeframe
Metric
Activities for Goal 1 Timeframe Who Metric
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Goal 2
Timeframe
Metric
Activities for Goal 2 Timeframe Who Metric
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 25
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Goal 3
Timeframe Who Metric
Activities for Goal 3 Timeframe | Who Metric
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Goal 4
Timeframe Who Metric
Activities for Goal 4 Timeframe Who Metric
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Goal 5
Timeframe Who Metric
Activities for Goal 5 Timeframe Who Metric
1.
2.
26 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Plan Implementation
Once you know your goals, think about the activities that are needed to achieve the goals. Then enter the activities
in the Environmental Goal Chart. The chart also has space for the timeframe /milestones for each activity, who will
be responsible for implementation, and how it will be measured. Clearly defining this information will help ensure that
your goals are achieved. Identifying employee responsibilities for implementing the actions is particularly important.
Consider including environmental performance in employee appraisals. Employees are more likely to make sustainabil-
ity a priority if management makes it a priority and performance reviews communicate this clearly.
Step 4. Go Green
Step 4 will help you:
O Implement your greening strategy.
Turn Your Strategy into Action
At this point, you are ready to turn your greening strategy into action. It's your business, and you and your employees
know best how to make a strategy work. Steps 2 and 3 helped you develop a vision and a plan, and now you just have
to bring that plan to life.
Check to make sure your company goals are clearly translated into specific activities, that the activities are reasonable,
and that each employee understands their responsibilities. Employees should also understand the company's vision for
sustainability, be aware of the company's greening goals, and be assigned responsibility for specific goals.
Leadership and communication are key to success. If greening your business means major changes to the company
culture, much of your success depends on managerial skill. As you know, managers have to communicate effectively,
"walk the talk," and set a positive example.
It's important to reinforce responsibilities and green thinking on a regular basis. Educate your employees on why green-
ing is important, e-mail relevant online articles, leave environmental magazines in the lunchroom, and talk about the
underlying issues. Send out regular e-mails or post signs reminding your team of the company's green goals and vision
for sustainability. It is important to communicate progress toward goals so everyone can see how their actions make
a difference.
STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 27
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Motivate your employees. Remind them that the company's sustainability success relies on teamwork. Recognize good
performance and thank employees for their efforts. Consider friendly competitions between offices or different employee
groups. Maybe the group that reduces energy the most or uses the least paper wins a bagel breakfast or movie tickets.
As you move forward, remember to stay focused on the results. Step 5 will help you measure your progress and create
a system for continual improvement.
Step 5. Ensure Continual Improvement
Step 5 will help you:
O Measure progress.
O Develop a strategy for updating your goals.
O Become more sustainable over time.
Sustainability is an on-going commitment to reduce environmental impacts for the benefit of future generations.
The goal of Step 5 is to help your company continue to make progress towards sustainability. This step will give you
strategies for keeping your commitment going and making your company greener every year.
Measure Progress
Step 4 helped put your greening strategy into place. Step 5 checks to see if the strategy is working. Good measures
will tell you if you're moving along the Environmental Performance Ruler in the right direction and are on track to reach
your goals. Measures will also help you evaluate your efforts so that you can keep doing what works and change what
is not effective. Seeing results will also help motivate you and your employees.
There are different approaches to measurement. If you plan to participate in a program that requires reporting to an
external organization, it is important to have detailed information and reliable metrics. If you don't plan on external
reporting, you still will want to know how you are doing; you just don't need to be as rigorous.
In selecting measures, focus on the outcomes of your initiatives, not just your activities. If you have started a recycling
program, measure the increase in materials recycled rather than number of recycling bins. If energy efficiency is your
focus, track the change in kilowatt-hours rather than incandescent light bulbs replaced.
Stick to the milestones for activities you identified along with your goals in Step 3. By tracking progress along the way,
you can make changes to correct your course early on. This is particularly important for more ambitious goals such as
reducing GHG emissions. By breaking down a large goal into manageable pieces, you can periodically measure your
progress, assess what's working and what's not, and make needed adjustments.
28 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Communication
Communication, both top-down and bottom-up, is important for keeping momentum and ensuring continual improve-
ment. It is useful to get feedback from your employees. Ask them about the impact of new environmental initiatives on
their day-to-day work, whether new initiatives are burdensome and if "green thinking" is being integrated into their daily
routine.
Asking for this information and providing employees with feedback on their environmental performance also communi-
cates management's interest and commitment to sustainability. Communicating Your Efforts in Section 3 provides more
ideas on communication.
Update Goals and Activities
Periodically reevaluate your goals and activities. If goals are being met or exceeded, consider setting more stringent
goals (and don't forget to recognize your employees for getting you there). If your team is not meeting the stated goals,
try to determine the root cause. It may be that your implementation strategy is not clear, staff responsibilities need to be
redefined, or perhaps the goals themselves are not realistic.
Over time, greening activities should become part of every day work responsibilities. When this integration occurs,
greening activities should be included in your Best Management Practices (BMPs) and standard operating procedures
or work instructions. You can then move on to create new greening activities.
Moving Forward
Leadership and management support will remain crucial to the on-going success of your sustainability initiatives.
Continue to educate yourself and your employees about environmental issues. Revisit your vision at least annually,
and update your goals as your business grows or changes. Encourage and empower your employees to always look
for environmentally-friendly ways to accomplish their jobs. Join voluntary programs to develop and strengthen your
greening efforts. Celebrate your efforts; plan an Earth Day event at your business or get involved in local events.
Remember to include greening in all decisions and try to anticipate the environmental impact of any new activities
or decisions. Continual improvement means being proactive, not reactive. Periodically refer back to Steps 1 and 2
and ask:
O Have we learned more?
O Has our vision changed?
O Are we satisfied with our progress along the Green Performance Ruler?
O Are we celebrating our greening successes?
STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY 29
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As green thinking becomes part of your company
culture, you and your employees will begin to
recognize countless opportunities to improve
your business' environmental performance. A
good place to start taking advantage of these
opportunities is to consider how your business
manages waste, purchasing, water, energy, and
30 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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I
This section describes opportunities for improving environmental performance by area of impact. Multiple options
are presented, allowing you to determine how ambitious you want to be based on your resources and your unique
business. Each topic area is arranged as follows:
O The Issue: an introduction to the impacts of business on the environment.
O Real Success: a profile of small business greening successes.
O Resources: select online resources.
O What You Can Do: a description of the options and opportunities to eliminate or reduce the environmental impacts
of your business.
Waste
Prevention, Reduction, and Recycling
The Issue
There are many reasons to reduce waste. Business-wise, the main reason is to save money. Waste is a loss. It represents
inefficiencies in the system and ineffective or unnecessary use of resources. While some waste may be unavoidable,
streamlining your business to prevent waste will boost your bottom line. The Seydel Companies, a textile chemical
manufacturer and member of EPA's Waste Wise program, increased revenues by more than $51 8,000 through waste
reduction. How much could you save?
From an environmental perspective, there are many reasons to reduce waste. Waste from virgin material extraction,
industrial processes and manufacturing represent depleted natural resources, damaged wildlife habitat, and pollution.
Improperly managed waste can lead to litter and toxins contaminating the environment, which can negatively affect
water, soil, air, and wildlife, as well as human health. Landfills take up space, can release harmful gases including
greenhouse gases, and can pollute water. Waste incineration uses energy and can release toxic air pollution. Toxic
components in electronic wastes (e-wastes) have become environmental, human health, and human rights problems
as these wastes are often shipped to developing countries with few regulations and poor working conditions.
OPPORTUNITIES 31
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WasteWise
www.epa.gov/epawaste/partner
ships/wastewise/index.htm
One of the best waste reduction re-
sources is EPA's WasteWise |
WasteWise is a voluntary partnership
program for businesses, local govern-
industry sec
he program helps par
as corrugated containers, office paper,
yard trimmings, packaging, wood pal-
lets, and select industrial waste. Waste-
Wise provides partners with tools to
design waste reduction programs
and offers free technical assistance
and opportunities for publicity.
Hazardous Waste
www.epa.gov/osw/hazard/
index.htm
Hazardous wastes are divided into
types: listed, characteristic, universal,
and mixed. EPA provides specific guid-
ance on waste identification to help
determine if your waste is hazardous.
Pollution Prevention (P2)
www.epa.gov/p2
EPA supports an extensive P2 program
to help reduce waste at the source. A P2
guide for small businesses is available
from www.epa.gov/p2/pubs/
assist/sbg.htm.
A nationwide network of P2 Technical
Assistance Programs provides help with
source reduction <
management: WWW.epa.gov/Oppt/
p2home/pubs/assist/index.htm.
Some commercial waste, like manufacturing by-products, cleaning fluids,
and pesticides, are legally considered hazardous wastes. In addition to being
dangerous to human health and the environment, hazardous waste disposal is
expensive and can lead to compliance issues with environmental regulations.
There are also management costs associated with the storage and transportation
of hazardous waste and potentially significant financial penalties for non-com-
pliance with hazardous waste regulations. Reducing or eliminating hazardous
waste can avoid the cost of hazardous waste management and reduce potential
noncompliance liabilities.
The Pollution Prevention (P2) hierarchy of reduce, reuse, and recycle is more
applicable today than ever. While not creating waste in the first place is the best
approach, waste reduction through recycling or reuse is easy and can save mon-
ey. Have you considered that your waste may be someone else's raw material?
Whether you have an office-based business that generates mostly paper waste,
a dry cleaner that generates hazardous waste, or a restaurant that generates
food waste, your business will benefit from waste reduction. No matter what kind
of waste, this guide will help you reduce it, reuse it, or recycle it.
What You Can Do
Get to Know Your Waste
Do you know what kind and how much waste your business generates? The first
step, whether you want to implement a comprehensive program or make specific
changes, is to look at the waste generated by your company. For example:
O How much waste is produced every week or month?
O How much does waste management and disposal cost you?
O Does your waste stream contain toxic components?
In addition to direct disposal costs, consider the cost of storage, regulatory com-
pliance, and other related expenses. If possible, weigh the waste components -
paper, food waste, plastics, etc. - to determine the composition. Once you know
your waste, you can make changes to get the most bang for your buck, both in
savings and in environmental protection. Understanding your waste generation
will also help you measure improvements. Tracking waste reduction is necessary
for communicating results, and when applying for awards and certifications.
The Waste Wise program provides a waste assessment form at
www.epa.gov/epawaste/partnerships/wastewise/measure-progress.htm
to help you characterize your waste management practices and quantify
waste generation.
32 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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real success:
a profile of Pictura Graphi
Pictura Graphics is a large-format digital graphics company in
Minneapolis, Minnesota and the first "Sustainable Green Printer"
certified by the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGPP).
Pictura produces custom finishing and digital imaging services
for banners and signage, wall murals, trade show displays,
building and vehicle wraps, window treatments, and floor
graphic treatments. After 30 years in business, Pictura took its
first steps towards sustainability in 2007 by introducing ecolM-
AGES™, a product line created using environmentally-friendly
components. Initially motivated by customer demand, environ-
mental stewardship and sustainability are now an integral part
of Picture's business practices.
Company President Paul Lilienthal says that Pictura has taken
a proactive approach to reducing the company's environmental
footprint and it's paying off. Picture's sustainability initiatives
have expanded the company's client base to include more
environmentally-aware customers, and have provided more
revenue and increased cost savings. Waste management and
recycling have proven particularly successful, saving the company
an estimated $20,000 each year. By increasing the recycling
of cardboard, aluminum, plastics, acrylics, styrene, general office
paper, and manufacturing by-products, Pictura reduced their
dumpster pick-ups by a factor of four - from eight to two pick-
ups per week. The costs of recycling are more than covered by
savings from waste reduction.
Picture's waste reduction efforts extend through the life cycle
of its products in the ecolMAGES line. EcolMAGES products are
manufactured using recyclable, re-pulpable, or biodegradable
components and printed with ultra-violet (UV) water-based inks
that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOC). EcolMAGES
fabrics and textiles are manufactured from recycled yarns and
••••graphics
natural cotton fibers. The line includes ecoFABRICS, ecoTEXTILES,
ecoVINYLS and ecoBOARDS. Since these products are made
from natural and recycled materials, and the products themselves
can be recycled, waste is significantly reduced from their creation
to the end of their lives.
Mr. Lilienthal believes that taking a good look at waste reduction
improves the overall quality and efficiency of business. He points
out that if employees are trying hard to avoid creating waste
while producing products, they will make an extra effort to "do it
right" the first time.
Pictura is striving for continual improvement, measuring progress
along the way, and seeking new ways to become more sustain-
able. The company has partnered with suppliers who share the
same environmental values, creating a network of companies
in the graphics industry who seek sustainable options that extend
to water and energy efficiency.
While Mr. Lilienthal encourages other small businesses to go
green simply because it makes good business sense, he says,
"You have to believe in what you're doing. Sustainability is a
journey and you have to be in it for the long term."
For more information about Pictura Graphics,
visit www.picturagraphics.com.
Disclaimer: EPA does not endorse any commercial company, their products or sen/ices
in any way. By including specific companies, EPA is simply providing information.
OPPORTUNITIES 33
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environmental stats
12.5
4.62
2.62
tons of solid waste
are produced by
businesses every
year in the United
States.
percent of all Mu-
nicipal Solid Waste
consists of food
scraps.
pounds of waste
were generated per
person per day in
2007.
pounds of waste
were generated per
person per day in
I960.2
Source Reduction
Source reduction is waste prevention. Source reduction starts before designing
a product or process, using a material, or purchasing an item. It is the practice
of identifying how changing processes, materials, or methodologies can reduce
waste. The key is to include waste considerations in all aspects of your business.
Upfront decisions that decrease materials that may end up as waste in all stages
of a product's life cycle will reduce the total amount of waste. Reducing the
toxicity of a specific product or the use of toxic products can decrease disposal
costs, environmental impacts, and incidences of noncompliance.
To reduce waste at the source, ask:
O Is this material or product vital to the success of my business?
O Can I redesign this product, packaging, or process to use less material?
O Can I buy this product in bulk to avoid extra packaging?
O Have I asked my vendor to reduce packaging?
O Do I really need to print this document?
Reuse
Unfortunately, we commonly dispose of products after a single use and have
come to expect disposable plates and utensils at business and social gatherings.
What a waste! Reuse is a simple but effective and often overlooked waste reduc-
tion tool. Reuse also saves money. Once you've purchased a reusable product,
you create less waste and spend less money on disposable products. Environ-
mentally speaking, reuse is preferred over recycling because less energy and
natural resources are used.
Any business can implement reuse policies as standard practice, no matter how
big or small and no matter what type of business. In the office kitchen, consider
providing ceramic mugs and plates in place of paper cups and plates. Instead
of single serving sugar and salt packets, provide a refillable container and buy
sugar and salt in bulk. In a restaurant, offer reusable cups, plates, and silver-
ware. If your business sells drinks, provide incentives for clients to bring their
own travel mugs or bottles. Many businesses reuse cardboard boxes and pack-
ing material for shipping, and used paper for note taking.
Some companies sell waste items. Waste exchanges are markets to sell or buy
reusable materials. They can be managed by non-profits or state and local
governments, and match your byproducts and wastes with potential users, often
through Web page listings. Check with your local or state agency for waste
exchanges in your area.
34 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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To reduce waste through reuse,
question every disposable product
you use and every product you put
in the trash. Ask:
O Can this product be reused?
O Is there a good reason to use
this disposable product?
O Is there another use for this
product?
O Could this material be listed
on a waste exchange?
Cradle to Cradle
Most production and waste manage-
ment programs are based on a "cra-
dle to grave" philosophy where waste
is managed from the beginning of
the product's life until disposal. This
view is being replaced with a "cradle
to cradle" approach that consid-
ers the entire life cycle of a product,
including how a product can become
a new product rather than waste
at the end of its life. The focus is on
using less materials, reducing toxics
and recovering more of the materials
at the end of the product's life. The
U.S. Post Office focused on develop-
ing greener shipping packages and
in 2007 received Cradle to Cradle
certification for their Express Mail
and Priority Mail packaging. The cer-
tification from MBDC (McDonough
Braungart Design Chemistry) consid-
ers 39 criteria for human and envi-
ronmental health, including toxicity,
renewable energy, water stewardship,
recyclability and other manufacturing
attributes.
-
Did you know that paper and
packaging make up almost one-third of
the municipal solid waste in a landfill?
i' 'V.'
aper waste, take the following steps:
O Avoid printing and printed materials to the extent possible. In
today's digital age, documents can be read and shared electronically.
O Print double-sided. Format your print options and printer for
automatic double-sided printing.
O Print multiple pages per sheet. Format your print options sc
that documents are automatically printed with multiple pages per
sheet.
O Optimize for fewer pages with smaller margins and more
effective use of white space.
O Reuse scrap paper for note taking.
O Don't keep multiple copies of a document. Use a central
file for required hard copies, or go electronic.
O Receive pdfs or scanned copies instead of paper.
O Edit and review on-screen rather than on a printed page.
O Use electronic billing and invoicing
-------
Does your business produce waste that may be "up-cycled" to create another useful product? An innovator in
California figured out how to turn an unwanted waste product — human hair — into cash. The organization weaves
hair clippings from salons into mats that are used to absorb oil from oil spills. Another company in Florida creates
mats from discarded hair to use as plant growth material.
Recycle
Recycling reduces energy use and saves natural resources. It also reduces landfill use and waste incineration. Recycling
also saves money by reducing trash pickup costs. In many areas, it is the law to recycle certain materials. We are most
familiar with the recycling of paper, aluminum, cardboard, plastics, and glass, but other materials such as cloth, rubber,
leather, wood, yard trimmings, and steel can also be recycled.
Depending on your area, local government or private companies may provide weekly collections or drop off recycling
centers. If you generate a lot of material, you might be able to contract with a recycling company for pickups. In some
cases, they may pay you for the material. If your county or city does not have a strong recycling program, encourage
them to start one. In this situation, membership in a local business group can make the push for a better recycling
program more effective. Some small businesses have found success building recycling programs through partnerships
with local schools, universities, and large businesses.
EPA's Business Guide to Recycling can be found atepa.gov/epawaste/nonhaz/municipal/pubs/bus-guid.htm.
To reduce waste through recycling, ask:
O Can this product be recycled?
O If not, can we purchase a similar product that can be recycled?
O Do we have a good recycling program?
Composting
Composting is a type of recycling that uses bacteria to break down organic waste into compost, which is then used
to fertilize and improve soil. Composting waste saves room in landfills and, as a side benefit, helps decrease pests in
dumpsters. Food scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, wood chips, leaves, and other organics are easily composted. You
can set up composting indoors or outdoors using a compost pile or bin. To manage compost, all you have to do is
add moisture and turn the pile regularly. Your composted organic waste becomes a useful material in two to five weeks.
If you don't have the space to compost material, consider giving it to someone who does. A market can give scrap
produce to farmers, and coffee shops can donate used grounds to customers. Keep in mind that plant-based plates,
cups, and utensils made from materials like sugarcane and cornstarch can go right into your compost pile. The same
is true for some types of packing peanuts.
EPA has information about composting at www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/rrr/composting/by_compost.htm.
36 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
-------
To reduce waste through composting, ask:
O Is this an organic material that can be composted?
O If I must buy disposables, can I buy ones that are compostable?
O Can we compost on-site?
O Is there someone else who will take and compost the material?
Donate
Donating unwanted equipment and products reduces waste and also helps
your community. In addition, you may be able to get a tax deduction. Surplus
office and kitchen equipment, clothing, and furniture can be donated to chari-
table organizations. There are also home improvement thrift stores in many
communities that accept used or surplus construction material. Community
educational programs and county operations may accept excess paints. Many
charities will pick-up the items so that you don't have to transport them.
Surplus food can be donated to food banks and scraps unfit for people can
be donated to farms for animals. EPA offers guidance on surplus food at
www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/materials/organics/pubs/food-guide.pdf.
To reduce waste through donation, ask:
O Could someone else use this?
Electronic Waste
Frequent upgrades of computers, cell phones, and other electronic equipment
are causing a growing volume of e-waste. This waste poses a particular chal-
lenge because many electronic products contain carcinogens and other toxic
substances, such as lead and cadmium. E-waste is also a global issue when
exported to nations with questionable environmental and safety regulations.
If possible, donate usable equipment for re-use or for educational programs.
Otherwise, look for environmentally-friendly disposal options. Some state and
local governments, electronics retailers, and manufacturers offer electronics
take-back, reuse, and recycling programs.
environmental stats
66
percent of recently
polled consumers
said companies
should provide
information on
their environmental
impact.
percent of recently
polled consumers
said companies
should offer green
products.3
OPPORTUNITIES 37
-------
Green purchasing is
mindful purchasing.
EPA has created an online tool to help you find a program in your area at
www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/materials/ecycling/donate.htm.
For more information on electronic waste and recycling, visit EPA's eCycling
web site at www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/materials/ecycling/index.htm.
Zero Waste
It is possible to be a zero waste business and to host zero or near-zero waste
conferences and meetings. The Lowell Folk Festival in Lowell, Massachusetts
hosts over 200,000 people for their annual event. Through operational changes
(vendors and concessionaires are prohibited from dispensing nonrecyclable
items like polystyrene food containers), recycling, and composting, the festival
has achieved a waste diversion rate of 95 percent (www.epa.gov/waste/con-
serve/rrr/rogo/documents/lowell.pdf). Challenge your employees to bring your
business as close to zero waste as possible.
To move toward zero waste:
O Design products and packaging for reuse or recycling.
O Create products and packaging using reclaimed or recycled materials.
O Use the least amount of raw materials or toxic materials possible.
O Do away with packaging entirely.
O Buy in bulk or buy products with reduced packaging.
O Buy products or materials that can be reused, reclaimed, or recycled.
Purchasing
Environmentally Preferable Choices and Products
The Issue
Green purchasing is mindful purchasing. By choosing environmentally-preferable
products, you can save money, reduce environmental impacts, and create a
healthier work environment. The manufacturing, use, and disposal of consumer
and industrial products have a significant impact on the environment. Each stage
of a product's life cycle can contribute to habitat loss, natural resource deple-
tion, and pollution. Product processing, manufacturing, transportation, develop-
38 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
-------
ment and disposal require energy and water, and cause air and water pollution,
GHG emission, ozone depleting substances, and solid and hazardous waste.
These impacts ultimately lead to environmental degradation and the loss of
biodiversity. Additionally, some products are potentially harmful to employees,
and difficult and expensive to handle and dispose of correctly. Other products
even "off-gas" hazardous chemicals just sitting on the shelf. Green purchasing
is the first step to minimizing these negative impacts.
Green purchasing means buying:
O Recycled-content products.
O Environmentally-preferable products and services.
O Biobased products.
O Energy- and water-efficient products.
O Fuel efficient vehicles and vehicles that operate with alternative fuels.
O Products manufactured using renewable energy.
O Alternatives to hazardous or toxic chemicals.
The market for green products has expanded dramatically in recent years.
In addition to meeting the growing demand for green products by the public,
federal and state governments are using their enormous purchasing power
to give a boost to the green marketplace. Federal agencies are implementing
environmental purchasing programs to meet requirements like the federal
Executive Order 1 3423 Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy,
and Transportation Management. This order requires that agencies purchase
environmentally sustainable goods and services, including products that are
environmentally-preferable, biobased, energy efficient, water efficient, and
made of recycled-content materials. Many state and local governments have
similar green purchasing rules. As a result, product quality and availability have
increased, and many green purchasing resources are now available. Private
organizations and government agencies like EPA and Department of Energy
(DOE) have developed product evaluation criteria and guidance for purchasing
environmentally friendly products.
Buying Green: EPA guidance
EPA's Comprehensive Procurement
Guideline program provides guid-
ance on buying recycled-content
products atwww.epa.gov/
waste/conserve/tools/cpg/
index.htm.
EPA maintains a database on the
environmental attributes of over
600 products and services at
yosemitel .epa.gov/oppt/epp
stand2.nsf.
There are EPA Energy Star quali-
fied products in more than 60
save money, and help protect the
environment. Look for products at
www.energystar.gov/index.
cfm?fuseaction=find_a_prod
The WaterSense program at EPA
has information on water-efficient
products atwww.epa.gov/
watersense/pp/lists.htm.
OPPORTUNITIES 39
www.epa.gov/osbp/
-------
Since employees will be responsible for implementing the procedures that will make your green purchasing program
a success, their buy-in is critical. Whether business purchases are made by a department or just one individual, it is
important to provide support as they change old purchasing practices to green purchasing practices.
Buying green helps:
O Reduce waste at the source since green products are reusable, recyclable, and have less packaging.
O Reduce toxic pollution since green products are made from less toxic or non-toxic materials.
O Conserve energy and water since green products are made from recycled materials.
O Put companies in a stronger position to market to green consumers, as well as federal, state, and local
governments.
O Improve employee health since green products are made with less toxic materials.
O Save money from increased energy and water efficiency, avoided tipping fees, buying in bulk, and reduced
regulatory costs.
O Reduce greenhouse gas emissions since green products use less fuel and cleaner fuel.
What You Can Do
Seek Out Green Characteristics
Recycled Content: Choose products made from recycled, reclaimed or recovered materials. Look for the highest
percentage of post-consumer recycled content. Common products are paper products like printer paper and
cardboard, but you can also find recycled-content plastic and construction products. Find information on paper
products at www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/paper/resources/buy_recycled.htm.
Biobased: Biobased products are made from biological materials and are usually recyclable or biodegradable.
The USDA lists biobased products at www.biopreferred.gov. Common products are compostable sugar cane
products like tableware, biodegradable hydraulic fluids and other lubricants, corn-based plastic conference
badge holders, and biodegradable natural absorbents.
Organic: Organic products are made from plants and animals produced without pesticides, fertilizers, growth
hormones, genetic modification or antibiotics. Organic farming improves the health of the land and does not add
toxic pesticides to the air and water. In addition to food and beverages, fabrics can also be organic.
Energy-efficient: Some products use significantly less energy than others in their class. EPA's Energy Star label
indicates that the product has been evaluated by an energy performance rating system (www.energystar.gov).
Water-efficient: Look for products that use less water such as high efficiency urinals and dual-flush toilets.
EPA's WaterSense program certifies products that are 20 percent more water-efficient than similar products
(www.epa.gov/watersense/).
40 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
-------
real success:
a profile of Transcendentist
Clients of Dr. Fred Pockrass and his wife Ina Pockrass may feel
more like they're in a spa than a dentist when they visit Transcen-
dentist in Berkeley, CA. The Pockrass' have rethought every aspect
of general dentistry since opening their business in 2003 to make
their practice reflect their values, and maximize patients' wellness
and comfort while minimizing environmental impact. As founders
of the EcoDentistry Association™ (EDA), the Pockrass' are green
pioneers in an industry that still uses toxins such as mercury and
many wasteful disposable products. Their commitment to envi-
ronmentally friendly dentistry led them, by necessity, to a second
business enterprise-- a line of greener dental products. Clearly
the Pockrass' approach is working; Transcendentist gets 30 to 40
new clients every month with limited marketing.
From organic toothpaste to wallpaper made from reclaimed pulp,
the Pockrass' have worked hard to ensure every product in their
office is environmentally friendly. Frustrated by the waste gener-
ated in a traditional dentist office where paper infection control
products are thrown away after one use, the Pockrass' created a
line of reusable infection control products. They created 100%
cotton cloth headrests to replace paper headrests and special-
ized fabrics to wrap sterilized instruments instead of paper or
plastic. The cloth products are washed in an energy efficient
washer with a sterilization cycle. A former OSHA inspector works
with the Pockrass' to ensure that the highest health standards are
maintained. According to Susan Beck, EDA director and chief
operating officer for Transcendentist, the reusable products save
thousands of dollars a year.
Transcendentist's environmentally friendly products extend to a
line of oral care products. The Eco-toothbrush and Eco-tongue
scraper are both made from recycled yogurt cups, and they
have a line of consumer and professional tooth care products in
development, such as organic polishing paste. Created out of
necessity, the Pockrass' now sell their products to other dentists
throughout the US who also want to be green.
Green purchasing even extends to high-tech equipment at Tran-
scendentist: the digital imaging machine uses 75 to 90 percent
less radiation and requires no toxic chemicals, compared to a
traditional x-ray machine. And of course the practice's traditional
office products are also green. Much of the office furniture is
made from recycled wood and covered in natural materials. Staff
clean with environmentally friendly cleaning products and sterilize
instruments using steam, rather than chemicals. The flooring is
made from natural materials and the carpeting is untreated wool.
Transcendentist has received numerous awards and garnered
media attention for their greening and wellness initiatives. It is the
first dental office to be certified as a green business by the Bay
Area Green Business Program and is winner of the Acterra En-
vironmental Award: The Suzanne G. Wilson Award for Pollution
Prevention and Resource Conservation. The practice has been
featured in popular magazines and Dr. Fred has been interviewed
on television and radio. But perhaps most rewarding is the fact
that 90 percent of the Pockrass' clients come from referrals, and
in post-appointment surveys, nearly every patient responds that
they would be likely refer the practice to family and friends
The Pockrass' continue to set the standard for green dentistry.
They consult with other dentists and work with dental and hygiene
schools through the EcoDentistry Association™. The EDA's
"GREENdoc" program provides the only national standard of
certification for green dental practices. They believe that their ap-
proach represents the next generation of dentistry because more
and more clients recognize and desire whole-health, eco-friendly
dentistry. Their experience shows that doing business according to
their values brings rewards three-fold: happier clients, healthier
environment, and higher profits.
For more information on Transcendentist,
visit www.transcendentist.com.
Disclaimer: EPA does not endorse any commercial company, their products or sen/ices
in any way. By including specific companies, EPA is simply providing information.
OPPORTUNITIES 41
www.epa.gov/osbp/
-------
Fuel efficient and alternative fuel vehicles: Choose vehicles with high fuel efficiency or consider vehicles powered
by alternative fuels. These non-petroleum fuels include biodiesel, which is made from vegetable oils, animal fats
or recycled restaurant grease. Also included are hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, which use gasoline
and rechargeable electric power. The Transportation Section below has more details about these options.
Renewable energy: Purchase products manufactured using renewable energy such as solar, wind, biomass, and
geothermal. Talk to your utility company about purchasing electricity from renewable sources, or consider creating
your own renewable energy on-site. The energy section below has more information on renewable energy.
Alternatives to hazardous or toxic chemicals: Avoid products that have caution, warning or danger on the label, a tip
off that the contents are harmful. Also check Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) to find out about hazards associated
with a product or constituent. Avoid products that contain or release:
O Toxic chemicals such as EPA designated toxic air pollutants like benzene, perchloroethylene, and methylene
chloride.
O Ozone depleting substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorfluorocarbons (HCFCs), halons,
and methyl bromide.
Produced Locally: Products manufactured locally with local raw materials are usually environmentally preferable to
similar products produced far away because of transportation-related impacts like carbon emissions and fuel use.
Sustainable Companies: Purchase goods and services from companies that strive to be sustainable and conduct their
business in an environmentally-friendly way.
For example:
O Look for a printing company that uses recycled paper, nontoxic inks, and renewable energy.
O Hold your next meeting in a green meeting facility or hotel.
O Seek out vendors that supply environmentally-preferable products.
O Conduct business lunches at a green restaurant.
O Use a delivery service with alternative fueled vehicles.
Less Packaging or better packaging: Purchase products with less packaging or with recycled-content or biobased pack-
aging. Work with your vendors to reduce excess packaging.
Buy Certified
You don't have to analyze the impacts of every single product life cycle
yourself to make informed green purchasing decisions. Look for products
42 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
-------
that are certified as environmentally preferable by a reputable organization.
By using certified products, you can avoid the appearance of greenwashing.
Consider Product Life Cycle
If certifications are not available and you want to make your own green
determination, consider the four stages of a product's life cycle before making
a purchase. The four stages are:
O Raw material acquisition.
O Manufacturing.
O Use, reuse, and maintenance.
O Disposal.
Energy and raw materials are inputs at each stage, while air emissions, solid
and waterborne wastes, and other releases are outputs. You can use this list
of questions to consider the environmental impacts at each life cycle stage:
O Is the product made from a natural, renewable, organic, or biobased
resource?
O Does the product contain toxic chemicals?
O Are the product and its packaging made from recycled or reclaimed
materials?
O Is it biodegradable or compostable?
O Is the product produced locally?
Before you make your purchase, also consider:
O Can the product be reused or recycled?
O Can we buy the product in bulk?
O Do we really need to purchase this product?
EPA provides extensive information
on water-related issues and
resources including sustainability
and efficiency.
www.epa.gov/water
check with your state or local envi-
ronmental agencies or utilities. DOE
has collected links to resources on
www.eere.energy.gov/.
EPA offers water-efficient practices
and tips specifically for businesses.
www.epa.gov/watersense/
tips/
OPPORTUNITIES 43
www.epa.gov/osbp/
-------
environmental stats
3,000
100
percent of the
world's water
supply is avail-
able for human
consumption
gallons of water
are wasted each
year from a fau-
cet leaking one
drip per second
gallons of water
are used by each
American on
average every
WATER
Protection, Conservation and Reuse
The Issue
Clean water is relatively cheap and available in many parts of the US. However,
some areas have experienced droughts and water shortages in recent years,
and the demand for water is rising as the population grows. This means that
water-related issues are expected to increase in the future. In addition, water
pollution problems persist, and the collection and treatment of water is a signifi-
cant expense for local communities and uses energy.
There are many sources of water pollution, which can affect human health,
and harm wildlife and ecosystems. Storm water runoff carries contaminates like
pesticides, lead, arsenic, and other toxic chemicals from land into streams and
lakes. This includes contaminates like mercury from air pollution that settle out
onto the ground. Some companies discharge waste directly into water. Wastewa-
ter treatment plants are not designed to remove many of the chemicals put down
drains, and as a result, hormones and pharmaceuticals are now found in rivers
and lakes.
The best way to protect water is to reduce air and water pollution, and reduce
the potential for contaminated run-off from facilities. In addition, storm water
control can reduce compliance costs and negative impacts like erosion.
Businesses can implement water conservation in manufacturing processes,
plumbing, and irrigation. This helps protect water quality and can also save
money. The less water you use, the less you have to pay for. It's as simple as
that. Less water consumption also lowers energy costs from reduced treating,
pumping, and heating requirements.
What You Can Do
Install Water-efficient Products
Products with the WaterSense label will save water and you know they will
perform. All WaterSense labeled products are third party tested to meet EPA's
criteria for water efficiency and performance. Look for the WaterSense label on
toilets, faucets, and other water-using products.
44 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
Stop Leaks
Conduct a water audit of your building and facilities to identify and repair leak-
ing or older pipes. Reinforce seals to prevent leaks in the future.
-------
Create Catchments, Rain Gardens, and Green Roofs
A catchment system, or rainwater harvesting, is the collection of rainwater that would otherwise runoff from the roof
onto the ground. Collected rainwater can be used for irrigation, vehicle washing, and even for flushing toilets and other
indoor non-potable uses. Rainwater use indoors may require a permit and, if you want to drink the water, a filtration
system. Water harvesting is not legal in all areas because of water allocation regulations, so check with your local or
state government. In addition to providing water for other uses, a catchment system helps slow the flow of storm water
and prevent erosion.
A rain garden is a garden designed to catch runoff from impervious surfaces such as parking lots, driveways, and roofs.
Rain gardens help to control flooding, reduce erosion, and minimize irrigation.
A green roof is a specialized roof that is planted with vegetation. Depending on the type of roof, this vegetation can
range from grasses to actual trees. The green roof slows storm water runoff, helps cool the building which saves energy,
and reduces the urban heat island effect. It also prolongs the life of the underlying conventional roof and turns the
unused roof into an aesthetically pleasing amenity. A green roof can make your building distinctive and memorable,
which differentiates you from the rest of the market.
Appropriate Landscaping
If your business has a landscaped area, consider planting regionally appropriate or native species that can thrive
in local conditions with less watering or excessive maintenance. Replace lawns with plants that don't require frequent
mowing or clipping. The benefits of appropriate landscaping include reduced water, pesticide, and fertilizer use,
reduced maintenance, reduced air pollution from mowers and blowers, and reduced water pollution. If you have
an irrigation system, have it audited by a WaterSense Irrigation Partner (www.epa.gov/watersense/pp/irrprof.htm)
who can identify and repair leaks and ensure that the system is running efficiently.
Reduce the amount of pavement and other impervious surfaces. For example, if you have to create a parking lot or
sidewalk consider using a pervious surface that allows storm water to pass through. This includes material like pervious
concrete or asphalt, or permeable paver systems.
Protect your Drains
Don't put chemicals down the drain. Post signs above sinks and drains in your business to ensure that employees
and patrons do not dump chemicals in the wastewater system.
To protect water quality and reduce water use, ask:
O Are we using water as efficiently as possible?
O Have we installed water-efficient products like WaterSense labeled products?
O Have we checked for and stopped all water leaks at our facilities?
O Have we explored ways to use storm water like irrigation?
OPPORTUNITIES 45
-------
environmental stats
Compact
fluorescent light
bulbs cost about
percent less to
operate and last
about 1 0 times
longer than
incandescent
bulbs
Energy-efficient
refrigerators
and freezers
can save over
45
percent of
energy used by
conventional
models
Lighting
accounts for
20 to
50
percent of elec-
tricity consump-
tion.5
46 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
O Is a rain garden or green roof a possibility?
O What steps are we taking to reduce water use for landscaping?
O What steps have we taken to protect our drains?
ENERGY
Efficiency, Conservation, and Renewables
The Issue
Perhaps more than any other issue, energy has serious environmental conse-
quences and financial impacts on your business. The vast majority of energy
used in the United States comes from fossil fuels - petroleum, coal, and natural
gas. Fossil fuel extraction, processing, and transportation damages ecosystems
and depletes a non-renewable resource. Fossil fuel use releases greenhouse
gases that are largely responsible for climate change, contributes to local toxic
air pollution such as mercury and smog, and is a major cause of ecosystem
damage around the world.
Energy costs are also expensive and unpredictable. Energy is the largest operat-
ing expense for commercial buildings and Energy Star estimates that up to one
third of the energy in a typical office building is wasted. With increasing fuel
prices and unreliable energy supplies, poor energy management is a liability
for your company. Can you compete with more efficient businesses if you are
wasting money on energy?
While climate change and pollution are reason enough for good corporate
citizens to reduce energy use, there is also a strong business case for efficiency.
Energy-efficient businesses can save significant money and maintain steady
operating costs when energy costs are increasing. Sealing and insulating a
drafty building, for example, can shave up to 20% off heating and cooling bills.
Energy-efficient businesses are also better prepared for possible GHG regula-
tions and reduced emissions can reduce compliance issues.
A company with top energy performance can:
O Save money.
O Prepare for greenhouse gas regulation.
O Reduce compliance costs.
O Buffer increasing energy costs.
-------
real success:
Fit 'n Furry is a state of the art pet care facility in Petaluma,
California that offers boarding, grooming, and training in the
city's first certified "All Green Commercial Building." Because
Fit 'n Furry owners Grant and Marci Garl share "a passion for
pets and planet," they integrated sustainability into their business
plan from square one. By implementing more environmentally-
friendly operations, including innovative ways to conserve water
and choosing a sustainable design for their facility, the Garls are
proving that green pet care equals business success.
With the support of the City of Petaluma and the Petaluma
Chamber of Commerce, the Garls renovated a 1 7,000 square
foot green indoor facility with 1 53 rooms and suites for dogs,
1 6 cat condos, and three play areas. To avoid the environmental
impacts associated with new construction, the Garls retrofitted
an existing building. They used salvaged materials as much as
possible, including constructing play area floors from recycled
tires. The lighting system and appliances are certified energy
efficient and the walls contain double insulation. Low VOC
paint means Fit 'n Furry's animal guests are not exposed to
harmful off-gassed chemicals during their stay.
Pet care facilities typically use a lot of water to clean up after
the animals go about their "business." However, wise water use
is critical for a business located in a drought prone state, such
as California. At Fit 'n Furry, floors are scrubbed using a unique
wet and dry vacuum that "mops and scoops" simultaneously.
This method uses ten times less water than traditional mopping.
All faucets and sinks are fitted with low-flow devices. The use
of biodegradable, environmentally-friendly cleaning solutions
reduces the cleaning chemicals put down the drain. Even the
dogs are bathed more efficiently at Fit 'n Furry. The dog tub is
fitted with a spa pump that re-circulates water to keep it from
continuously running down the drain.
The Garls estimate that the green design added about five
percent to the cost of the retrofit but that the water and energy-
efficiency measures will save money on an ongoing basis. Plus,
recognition as a sustainable business attracts customers who
are concerned about the environment. As a strategic business
decision, going green is a way to differentiate Fit 'n Furry from
competitors and fill a need in the local pet care market. Since
Fit 'n Furry's doors opened two years ago, the steady stream
of four-legged guests confirms that the Garls' choice to be a
sustainable business was a wise one.
While greening is paying off financially, Mr. Garl believes that
it is also the right thing to do ethically. Beyond the financial
and market benefits, he is proud that Fit 'n Furry is a safe place
for pets and people that provides goodwill in the community.
"Long-term, we are all better off saving resources like water and
fossil fuels. Would I encourage other business owners to go
green? Sure!"
For a virtual tour and more information about Fit 'n Furry, visit
www.fitnfurry.com.
Disclaimer: EPA does not endorse any commercial company, their products or sen/ices
in any way. By including specific companies, EPA is simply providing information.
OPPORTUNITIES 47
www.epa.gov/osbp/
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Energy Star
Energy Star promotes ener_
and practices, and provides information specifi-
cally for small businesses.
www.energystar.gov/smallbiz
Energy Star's guide, Putting Energy into
Profits: Energy Star Guide for Small Business,
helps small businesses fine
energy-saving projects.
www.energystar.gov/smallbizguide
Energy Star also provides free online trc
on energy efficiency.
www.energystar.gov/training
Business.gov
Business.gov, the US Government's official web
site for small businesses, offers guidance on
energy efficiency with information on financing
energy projects and resources to help c
the rate of return from energy upi_
www.business.gov/expand/green-busi
ness/energy efficiency/get started/
Department of Energy
The Department of Energy (DOE) has financial
opportunities for energy efficiency and renewable
energy, wwwl .eere.energy.gov/financing
DOE also has information on federal tax breaks
for energy projects. WWW.energy.gov/
additionaltaxbreaks.htm
Fortunately, there are many cost-effective ways to reduce energy use. Oppor-
tunities range from switching to energy-efficient light bulbs to complex alterna-
tive energy projects. The payback period for energy initiatives can range from
months to years. Government and utility programs may help pay for energy im-
provements or provide tax incentives, which shortens the payback period. These
opportunities change over time so check with your local government or utility.
What You Can Do
There are many actions you can take to reduce energy use, from simple be-
havioral changes like turning out lights, to major capital projects like installing
alternative energy projects. An energy audit can help identify where to start
and where to get the best return on investment. Some of the many alternatives
are described below.
Conduct an Energy Audit
The best first step is to perform an energy audit on your facility. Utilities, state
energy offices and private companies can help you find a trained professional
to conduct an audit. However, comprehensive, affordable, competent energy
audits are not available everywhere in the country for small businesses. If this
is the case in your area, ENERGY STAR provides free online tools and informa-
tion to achieve energy savings, basic guidance for self-assessments can be
found at www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=assess_performance.conduct_
assessments.
You can also use ENERGY STAR's Portfolio Manager software to benchmark
and track energy use, costs, and greenhouse gas emissions. Portfolio Man-
ager also has the option to track water use, solid waste reuse/recycling and
renewable energy credits. Your small business can generate a Statement of
Energy Performance which includes an energy use intensity calculation, associ-
ated greenhouse gas emissions and a national average for similar building
types. For information on Portfolio Manager visit www.energystar.gov/index.
cfm?c=evaluate_performance.bus_portfoliomanager.
To strategically manage your business' energy use, ask:
O Have I considered conducting an energy audit, or using a program like
Portfolio Manager?
O Are there opportunities for improved energy efficiency that are not being
realized?
O Are there incentive programs for improved energy efficiency?
48 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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real success:
a profile of HARBEC Plastics Inc.
HARBEC Plastics Inc., a custom-injection molder in New York,
is an extraordinary example of how, with persistence and a com-
mitment to overcoming challenges, any type of business can
be sustainable. HARBEC manufactures highly-toleranced tooling,
machined components, and quality injection-molded parts for the
automotive, medical, aerospace, and communications industries.
Since 1 977, before "sustainability" became a household term,
HARBEC's founder, Bob Bechtold, was committed to minimizing
HARBEC's environmental footprint. According to Bechtold, in-
novative energy solutions and early adoption of new technologies
have been important components of HARBEC's green success.
Injection molding is not an easy industry to green and HARBEC's
energy needs are significant. The company's complex melting
and freezing processes require approximately three million kWh
of power per year. To meet this demand through green solutions,
Bechtold combined renewable energy generation with an innova-
tive energy management system. In 2002, he installed a 250 kW
wind turbine at HARBEC that supplies approximately 25 percent
of HARBEC's electricity. In line with the company goal of achiev-
ing carbon neutrality by 201 6, Bechtold is considering installing
an additional wind turbine to supply 1 500 kW of clean, renew-
able wind power.
HARBEC is one of the first companies in the world to successfully
use a co-generation or combined heat and power (CHP) system
powered completely by micro-turbines. Heat energy that would
otherwise be wasted is used for space heating and air condition-
ing. HARBEC's CHP system uses natural gas to power micro-
turbine generators that create electricity. The hot exhaust from
the electric generators goes to a heat exchanger that transfers
the heat to water. The heated water then warms the building
through a radiant in-floor heating system in winter. During sum-
mer, the hot water goes to an absorptive chiller to provide air-
conditioning. This system saves two to three times more energy
than a conventional system. HARBEC's energy use can be viewed
in real time on the company web site.
HARBEC also uses more conventional approaches to saving
energy such as high efficiency lighting fixtures, motion sensor
activated lighting, natural lighting, and double insulation. The
company's energy-efficiency measures extend to its vehicle fleet,
which consists of electric, hybrid, and alternative fuel vehicles.
Driven by a strong belief that the wise use of resources makes
for better business, Bechtold believes that inefficiency and pollu-
tion are wastes that negatively impact profitability. While intrigued
by the potential for renewable energy, he realized that environ-
mentally responsible investments still required positive returns.
By positioning HARBEC to withstand unpredictable energy prices
and be prepared for greenhouse gas regulations, this potential
is being realized.
HARBEC's energy solutions have garnered numerous awards
and public recognition for the company. Energy efficiency im-
provements continue to save money and put HARBEC ahead of
its competitors. Bechtold's long-term thinking and triple bottom
line philosophy have been in HARBEC's best economic interest,
and have also created a better work environment for employees
through improved air quality and reduced noise in the workplace.
A better work environment leads to improved quality, service, and
overall value for its customers.
Bob Bechtold believes perceived barriers to greening are a
"cop out" in today's world and that "it's in your best economic
interest....to do more with less." He concludes: "sustainability
is absolutely critical to [any business'] future success."
For more information about HARBEC Plastics Inc.,
visit www.harbec.com.
Disclaimer: EPA does not endorse any commercial company, their products or sen/ices
in any way. By including specific companies, EPA is simply providing information.
OPPORTUNITIES 49
www.epa.gov/osbp/
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Control the Temperature of Your Building
Heating and cooling account for 40 to 60 percent of energy use in commercial buildings. Even minor changes, such
as installing programmable thermostats and caulking drafty windows, can significantly improve energy efficiency. Don't
waste energy heating or cooling an empty building, set the thermostat to 78°F in summer and 68°F in winter an hour
before occupancy and 10-15 degrees cooler when the building is unoccupied.
Improve efficiency by sealing thermal leaks. Many leaks, such as those from drafty windows or poorly connected
ducts, can be sealed at little cost. Other fixes, like repairing older windows or concealed ducts, may be costly upfront
but can save money over the long term. Also, if it's time to replace old windows, be sure the replacement windows
are highly efficient.
Routine maintenance on your HVAC system will ensure efficient functioning. Make sure your furnace, heat-pump,
and air-conditioner filters are cleaned or replaced according to the manufacturer's schedule. Operating an HVAC
system with a dirty filter is comparable to driving a car up a hill with the brakes on. If your HVAC system is ten years
or older, does not maintain a comfortable temperature, or constantly cycles on and off, it may need to be serviced,
or even replaced with a more efficient system.
To optimize energy conservation from building management, ask:
O Are programmable thermostats installed and set correctly?
O Are all leaks and drafts sealed?
O Have we taken all opportunities to minimize the use of the HVAC system?
Insulation
Properly installed insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors can significantly improve energy efficiency by preventing
winter heat loss and summer heat gain. Common types of insulation include fiberglass, rigid foam board, spray foam,
cellulose, and reflective insulation. The best insulation for your needs depends on multiple factors, including where
the insulation will be placed, how much is needed, and the accessibility of the insulated space. Insulation should also
extend to hot water pipes and ducts that run through unheated areas.
Look for insulation with a high "R-value," or thermal resistance. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation will
withstand heat flow.
To increase efficiency from insulation, ask:
O Are buildings insulated properly?
O Are pipes and ducts insulated properly?
O Is there an opportunity to increase the amount of insulation?
50 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Lighting
Lighting can account for 20 to 50 percent of your energy bill, and is one area where saving energy is easy and in-
expensive. Start by replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or light-emitting
diodes (LEDs). CFLs may be more expensive than incandescent lamps up front, but they use 75 percent less energy than
incandescent, last up to ten times longer, and can save about $30 over the life of the bulb, not including maintenance
costs for bulb replacement. For existing tube fluorescent lamps, upgrading the tubes, installing reflectors, and changing
diffusers all save energy. There are an increasing number of LED light options. LEDs use 50 percent less energy than
fluorescent lights and last even longer, which also saves on maintenance costs.
There are also ways to reduce your artificial lighting requirements. Consider better use of free natural daylight, which
has been shown to improve employee morale and productivity. Skylights and light tubes bring light but not heat into
interior spaces. Motion sensors and timers are a good option for areas like restrooms and closets, and for security
lighting.
Many buildings have more fixtures than necessary, meaning that some fluorescent tubes can be removed without
affecting light quality. A light meter used during an audit can measure light intensity to show if delamping is an option.
To reduce energy use from lighting, ask:
O Are lights turned off consistently when not needed or are motion sensors or timers installed?
O Are incandescent bulbs replaced with more efficient CFLs or LEDs?
O Are energy savings optimized by using the lowest wattage bulbs necessary?
O Is natural daylight used when possible?
Unplug
Adapters, chargers, and appliances with digital displays draw energy even when "off." Make it company policy to un-
plug and switch off chargers and appliances when not in use. Power strips make it easy to turn off everything at once
at the end of the day and some can sense when appliances are not in use and shut down automatically.
To save energy from appliances, ask:
O Is it necessary to leave this appliance turned on or plugged in?
O Would a smarter power strip make sense to turn off appliances when not in use?
Use Energy-efficient Appliances, Electronics, and Devices
The replacement of older appliances and electronics with certified energy-efficient appliances, such as Energy Star
qualified products, can lead to significant savings. While efficient appliances may have higher upfront costs, the pay-
back from energy savings may be short. Energy Star estimates that the payback for new commercial freezers is a little
OPPORTUNITIES 51
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over a year. In many areas, rebates or tax credits are available for the purchase of more efficient appliances or retrofit
of existing ones.
Some products, such as computers and monitors, require enabling of their energy-saving features. Follow the instruc-
tions for enabling energy-savings features and ask your employees to do the same.
There are also special devices that can save energy. Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators reduce hot water
use and therefore the energy required to heat the water. Anti-sweat heater controls on glass-fronted refrigerators and
"vendor misers" that power-down vending machines when no one is around can save significant energy.
Another energy-saving option is to turn down the temperature of your water heater to 1 20°F. For basic office and
bathroom uses, your employees and clients have the same comfort but your business will be saving energy.
To save energy from appliances and electronics, ask:
O Are my business' appliances and electronics energy efficient?
O Are energy-saving features enabled?
O What is the savings from replacing old appliances with certified energy efficient ones?
O Can existing appliances be retrofitted with controls to be more efficient?
Switch to Renewables
Renewable energy, or green power, is energy created from resources other than fossil fuels and includes solar, wind,
geothermal, and biomass. Opportunities for small businesses to adopt renewable energy technologies are more widely
available and realistic than ever before. While there are up-front costs when installing renewable technologies, they can
ensure your energy costs remain constant and predictable in volatile times. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory
provides information on renewable energy for small businesses at www.nrel.gov/learning/small_business.html.
There are many ways to harness energy from the sun. Active solar technologies like photovoltaic cells convert sunlight
into electricity and can put a useless space like your roof to work. In some areas, power utilities must buy back energy
from customers so you may be able to get paid for your excess energy. Passive solar technologies include solar hot
water heaters that use the sun to heat water as it passes through flat-plate collectors. Passive solar design is a building
design strategy that optimizes exposure to the sun's warmth. Most of these technologies can be retrofitted into existing
buildings.
A small wind system that uses turbines to convert wind energy to electricity may be an option for your business. The
ability to power your business with an on-site wind turbine will depend on the wind potential at your location, available
space to install the tower, and local zoning regulations.
Other renewable technology options include geothermal energy and biomass. Geothermal heat pumps utilize the
constant temperature below the ground and are far more energy efficient than traditional heating systems. A heat
52 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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exchanger moves heat from the ground into the indoor air system during the winter and reverses this process in the
summer. Biomass refers to plants or plant materials like wood, corn, or algae that can be used as an energy source,
or "bio-fuel." Biomass can be used to create petroleum substitutes like biodiesel, or to power generators through
gasification or anaerobic digestion.
You can support the growth of the renewable energy sector and offset your energy use with renewable energy
certificates (RECs) or green tags. This is not the same as carbon offsets. An REC is created when renewable energy
is generated. When you purchase an REC, you are, in effect, purchasing the green energy. EPA's Guide fo Purchasing
Green Power has information on RECs at www.epa.gov/greenpower/buygp/guide.htm.
To improve energy efficiency through use of renewable energy technologies, ask:
O How will unpredictable energy prices affect my business?
O Could my business benefit from renewable energy production?
O What is the potential for renewable energy production on-site?
Transportation
Alternative Options and Vehicles
The Issue
Vehicles impact the environment and our health throughout their life cycle. From production to disposal, cars and
trucks release pollution that contributes to climate change and toxic air pollution. Most vehicle pollution occurs during
driving. Vehicles burn fuel and release CO2, the most prevalent GHG, and pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx),
sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and fine airborne particles called
particulate matter (PM). Vehicle emissions also contribute to smog (ground level ozone). These air pollutants can cause
cancer and contribute to other health problems such as stroke, lung disease, and heart disease, in addition to negative
environmental effects. Additionally, long driving commutes can have negative health impacts on employees, including
sleep disorders, weight gain, and exposure to air pollution.
Automobile manufacturing requires raw materials such as steel, aluminum, copper, and plastic (which is derived from
petroleum). Once manufactured, vehicles require gasoline and diesel fuel to operate. Manufacturing, and fuel produc-
tion and distribution consume vast amounts of energy and release significant pollution into the environment.
Transportation includes business activities like deliveries, shipping, employee travel, and employee commuting. Increas-
ing and fluctuating fuel costs makes budgeting difficult and can turn a profitable year red. Green solutions range from
replacing current vehicles with more efficient or alternative fuel vehicles, to evaluating your transportation needs to
make your business processes more efficient (e.g., shipping by train rather than truck or using electronic technology
as an alternative to traveling and commuting).
OPPORTUNITIES 53
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EPA and DOE have teamed
up to provide consumers with
impacts, fuel use calculations,
and more.
www.fueleconomy.gov
EPA's Green Vehicle Guide
allows users to compare envi-
ronmental performance across
vehicle classes. WWW.epa.
gov/greenvehicles
The Alternative Fuels and
Advanced Vehicles Data Center
is a clearinghouse sponsored
by the DOE with information
on fuels, vehicles, and trans-
portation laws and incentives.
www.afdc.energy.gov/
afdc/about.html
Fuel savings can come from simple changes, like slowing down. EPA's Smartway
program estimates a seven percent reduction in fuel use and GHG emissions
for every five miles per hour reduction of highway speed. Stop idling. A report
from the Argonne National Laboratory estimated that the 1 3 million light- and
medium-duty trucks in the U.S. waste more than 600 million gallons of fuel per
year when idling. Drive smart. Better driving can increase fuel economy by ten
percent.
Do you have a good understanding of the transportation habits and needs of
your business so that you can increase efficiency and reduce vehicle miles trav-
eled (VMT)? Is every single pick-up, delivery, and business trip absolutely
necessary? Can trips be avoided, combined, or eliminated? Small companies
can rack up big savings with improved efficiency and a more efficient company
is a more competitive company.
What You Can Do
Reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
Perhaps the cheapest way to reduce the environmental impact of transportation
is to drive less. Fewer miles equals less pollution and lower costs for you. Good
planning, optimization of trips, taking public transportation, and always asking
"Is this trip necessary" can all reduce your VMT.
Reduce Employee Commuting
Every vehicle mile not traveled saves money, prevents vehicle wear and tear,
reduces pollution, and improves employee health. Encourage your employees
to use public transportation for commuting and business trips. Public transporta-
tion also reduces stress and allows for time to read, relax, or work. If possible,
locate your business near public transportation or provide a shuttle to and from
rail or bus stations.
To encourage public transportaton you may want to help cover employees' fares
or have a monthly raffle where employees enter their ticket stubs into a prize
drawing. Make it a contest — at the end of every month, tally the financial and
GHG emissions savings from avoided miles driven. Some areas have before-tax
accounts for commuting costs and other incentives to help employers encourage
employees to use public transit.
54 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Encourage employees to bike or walk to work. The exercise will improve health and make a more productive workforce.
Provide bike racks, showers or changing facilities, or even bikes to encourage employees to avoid commuting by car.
Car and vanpooling are also good options. Sharing the commute reduces the number of vehicles on the road which
saves energy and money, reduces air
pollution, and reduces congestion. There are many resources for how to design
incentives to encourage carpooling or your local government may provide
incentives. Ride-sharing programs help commuters connect online to organize carpools. There are several national sites
or search the web for a local site that covers your community.
Telecommuting
More and more companies are using telecommuting to reduce costs, improve morale, and provide a low-cost
employee benefit that helps attract and retain employees. Telecommuting also prevents interruptions to work caused
by winter weather or the need to stay home with sick children. And of course, telecommuting employees don't contrib-
ute to VMT. Obviously, some jobs, like auto mechanic, don't qualify for telecommuting, but employees in many jobs
can successfully telecommute one or more days each week. Some companies have telecommuting employees share
desks to reduce office space, which reduces energy and overhead costs.
To reduce environmental impacts from commuting, ask:
O Have I helped my employees reduce their commuting VMT?
O What are the public transportation options?
O How can I encourage employees to use public transportation?
O How can I promote walking or biking to work?
O What are the possibilities that staff can carpool together?
O Is telecommuting an option for my business?
Reduce Business Travel
Business travel, especially air travel, is costly to the environment and the bottom line. Make sure that business trips are
necessary, take public transportation or car pool, don't send more staff than needed, and cluster trips when possible.
Consider virtual meetings instead of face-to-face meetings. Everyone is familiar with conference calls, but now you can
also use web conferencing or webinars to share information while you talk. Teleconferencing with video is also possible,
although it requires an investment in video-conferencing equipment. Virtual meetings save energy and prevent harmful
emissions, while saving time and money on transportation, accommodations, and food.
OPPORTUNITIES 55
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environmental stats
30
1/3
MPG vehicles can
save $513 a year
over vehicles that get
20 MPG6
percent more carbon
dioxide emissions are
reduced with B100
biodiesel compared
with petroleum diesel7
of energy-related
greenhouse gas emis-
sions in the US come
from transportation8
56 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
To reduce environmental impacts from business travel, ask:
O Is this trip absolutely necessary?
O Can trips be combined?
O What are the options for holding virtual meetings?
Improve Transportation Efficiency and Reduce Petroleum
Consumption
Right-size Your Vehicles
Do you really need that truck for visiting clients? Often businesses have larger
or more powerful vehicles than are needed to accomplish their business purpos-
es, which wastes fuel and money. In addition to higher fuel needs, larger vehicles
often have greater upfront and insurance costs. Don't get a truck or an SUV
if a car will work. Don't go for a vehicle with a six-cylinder engine when a four-
cylinder is sufficient. Getting the right vehicle and the most fuel-efficient vehicle
in the class you need can reduce environmental impact and save you money.
Switch to Alternative Fuel Vehicles
If you operate a vehicle fleet, consider alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs). AFVs
can run on fuels other than petroleum such as biodiesel, compressed natural
gas (CNG), liquid petroleum gas (LPG), and electricity.
Consider switching to hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), which are powered by
a conventional gasoline engine combined with a rechargeable battery-powered
electric motor. Electric vehicles reduce fossil fuel consumption and are cleaner
than traditional gasoline powered vehicles.
The federal government provides incentives to promote the purchase of greener
vehicles. The DOE lists government incentives atwww.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/
incentives_laws.html. Some states and local governments also offer incentives,
such as Illinois which offers rebates through their Green Fleets program.
Maintain Your Vehicles
Proper maintenance can prolong the life of your vehicles and reduce the
release of pollutants. A properly tuned engine and appropriate tire pressure
help a vehicle run more efficiently and save many gallons of fuel over time
Reduce Idling
Institute a no idling policy for your vehicle fleet and other delivery trucks at your
facility. Many communities are passing no idling regulations so this may become
a legal requirement in your area.
-------
real success:
a profile of RainTube
RainTube of Jacksonville, Oregon started with a simple concept:
preventing damage from gutters is good for homeowners and
the environment. Every year non-working gutters overflow and
flood, causing as much damage to houses as two or three big
natural disasters. This costs homeowners millions of dollars in
repairs. There is also an environmental cost incurred through
the use of new materials and energy for making the replacement
gutters. This problem led to the development of a simple product
- RainTubes. Co-founders Steve Spratt and Bill Savage decided
that a green product required a green company, so they designed
RainTube from product design to transportation strategies around
transparency and eco-friendliness.
The RainTube product starts with a simple material with a
complicated name: High-Density PolyEthylene (HOPE). This
familiar plastic, which is used to make milk jugs and detergent
bottles, will last 3,000 years or more in a landfill. When recycled
as the main component of a RainTube, however, waste HDPE
is put to good use protecting houses. RainTube's Gold Tier Cra-
dle-To-Cradle Certification from MBDC reflects the company's
commitment to sustainability. This rigorous certification looks
at production elements such as environmentally safe and healthy
materials, design for reutilization (e.g., recycling or composting),
renewable energy use, energy and water efficiency, plus company
strategies for social responsibility. RainTube is one of fewer than
20 companies worldwide with a Gold certification level product.
RainTube has a positive impact on the environment by taking a
material out of the waste stream and helping protect homes. The
company also works to reduce its negative environmental im-
pacts. To minimize pollution and energy use from transportation,
RainTube located its main plant close to recycling centers, the
source for the main component material of RainTubes, and runs
company vehicles on biodiesel. This left the biggest transportation
issue: shipping the products to installers and retail stores.
To avoid impacts from shipping large quantities of finished prod-
uct, RainTube partnered with factories across the country. When
RainTube has a large order, they ship the product molds rather
(If
than the product to a partner factory. The factory uses the molds
to manufacture RainTubes with the same specifications as the
main plant. By manufacturing and distributing RainTubes close
to the end user, the environmental impact of transportation
is greatly reduced and the company saves significant money in
shipping costs.
Sustainability does not stop with manufacturing and transporta-
tion; it is part of every aspect of RainTube and is even document-
ed in company policy. The company reduced storm water runoff
at their office by eliminating pavement around the building, and
catching rainwater to water the lawn (future plans are to use the
rain water for flushing toilets). RainTube's success demonstrates
how creativity, like the solution to implement product shipping,
can reduce environmental impacts and benefit the company.
For more information on RainTube visit www.raintube.com.
Disclaimer: EPA does not endorse any commercial company, their products or sen/ices
in any way. By including specific companies, EPA is simply providing information.
OPPORTUNITIES 57
www.epa.gov/osbp/
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Choose Green Shippers
If possible, work with shipping companies that are greener than average, like members of EPA's SmartWay program
(www.epa.gov/otaq/smartway). Companies that participate in SmartWay Transport programs save money, reduce fuel
consumption and are recognized for their social responsibility and leadership. Ship by rail, as railroads can be three
times more fuel efficient than trucks.
To reduce your business' environmental impact from transportation, ask:
O Do I really need to make this trip or can I optimize it?
O Have I chosen the most efficient vehicle?
O Have I chosen the most efficient route?
O What is the greenest vehicle that will meet my business needs?
Communicating
your efforts
The Issue
Communicating your environmental successes can yield multiple benefits, both externally and internally. External
benefits to marketing the environmental performance of your business include establishing credibility, demonstrating
leadership in the community and in your sector, and possibly motivating other companies (and individuals) to go green.
Reporting externally also demonstrates transparency, an important element of corporate social responsibility.
Internally reporting your business' environmental performance can encourage continual improvement. It helps to ensure
staff members understand the importance of greening and how they can personally contribute to improving greening
efforts. Evaluating results and highlighting successes provides incentives to maintain momentum and keep up the good
work. Regular communication about the company's environmental programs also demonstrates management's com-
mitment to sustainability.
What You Can Do
Understand Your Environmental Performance
Good communication requires good data. You must measure your results in order to report on them. Many perfor-
mance-based and certification programs require documentation, and quantitative data makes your reports more
compelling and protects you from charges of greenwashing. If you don't measure, you can't evaluate your efforts to
know what to continue doing, and what to change. You may already track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), such as
the number of new customers each month or product quality, to evaluate progress towards other financial or business
goals. If you haven't done so already, include environmental metrics in your core KPIs. When selecting measures, focus
on outcomes. You can count how many light bulbs you replace but the real measure is how much energy is saved.
58 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Avoid Greenwashing
Greenwashing is a new term for an old issue - companies making claims that are exaggerated or untrue. Many con-
sumers are skeptical from hearing extravagant claims, like companies proclaiming they have gone carbon negative
(actually absorbing more carbon than their activities release). Don't over-state your progress. If you've increased the
recycled content of your product from four to six percent, tell you customers it has increased by two percent rather than
by a third. Measuring your results, not over-claiming the benefits, and opting for third party evaluations are all ways
to avoid the greenwashing label. This is important so that you and your industry don't lose the trust of customers and
the benefit of marketing to the environmentally aware.
Reporting
There are many ways to communicate your efforts. Formal reports, informal marketing material, articles, certifications,
and membership in performance-based organizations are all ways to get the word out about your greening initiatives.
The best approach depends on your size, goals, and industry, and will likely be a mix. Before making a decision on
how to communicate your performance, look at what other companies are doing. Then ask:
O Who am I trying to reach (customers, employees, investors, or other stakeholders)?
O What do I want them to know about my company's greening efforts?
O What are my goals (promote the company, motivate performance, or attract a specific customer)?
O What approach will best help me reach my goals?
Informal Reporting
You can cost effectively communicate your greening efforts informally through brochures, newsletters, web sites, and
other marketing materials. Informal materials are appealing to the public and retail customers who generally don't
want to wade through long, detailed reports. Picture Graphics provides information on the environmental benefits
of the company's "eco" line of products on their web site. Informal summaries can complement more detailed formal
reports. Informal material is also a good way to provide feedback and recognition for employees.
Formal Reporting
Many companies, mostly larger corporations, publish a formal environmental or sustainability report. There is no one
reporting standard, although several organizations publish guidelines. A well-documented formal report provides strong
evidence for your environmental claims and communicates that you are serious about your environmental performance.
Formal reports are often targeted towards investors, corporate clients, and government agencies, and may be too
detailed or technical to appeal to the public, community, or employees.
On the downside, comprehensive reports can be expensive to produce and can hurt your credibility if you don't meet
your environmental goals, or don't have much to report. Some companies avoid these issues by producing an envi-
ronmental report every other year. It is also important to report on real results and not cover weak data with flowery
language or confusing data.
OPPORTUNITIES 59
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Environmental reports focus on environmental impacts while sustainability reports include the triple bottom line ele-
ments: people, economy, and the environment. The goal of sustainability reporting is to provide the same transparency
for sustainability metrics as in financial statements. There is no required standard for sustainability reports, but organi-
zations like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) have developed widely used reporting frameworks (www.epa.gov/p2/
pubs/resources/p2meas_gri.htm). Using an accepted framework gives your report credibility.
If you are considering an environmental or sustainability report:
O Have you looked at reports from other companies? (A report that you like from a similar type and size
of company can be a template for your report.)
O Do you know your target audience for the report? (This will drive the content and complexity of the report.)
O What are your goals for the report?
O Do you collect the data required for the report?
Certification Programs
A certification is an independent third-party assessment that a product, service, or business meets a set of criteria.
Certifications range significantly in scope and rigorousness. Some have different levels, like silver, gold, and
platinum. Certifying organizations vary widely in the cost, credibility, and visibility of their certification process.
Some purchasers, like the federal government, require certification to support claims of environmentally-preferable
products. Companies looking to "green their supply chain" may also require their suppliers to obtain certifications.
The decision to obtain certifications and the type of certification depends on your goals and your clients' needs.
Generally, the more rigorous the certification, and the better known and respected the organization, the more valuable
the certification. A credible certification can prevent the perception of greenwashing. However, if your goal is to market
to the public and help promote sustainability, certification as a green business from a local non-profit may be the right
choice. Fit 'n Furry chose to stay local and is certified as a green building by the city of Petaluma, California, rather
than by the U.S. Green Building Council. If you are considering certifications, you should:
O Determine your goals (required by clients, marketing to the public).
O Ask your clients what certifications they require or respect.
O Research certifying organizations.
60 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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real success:
a profile of A World of Green
As sister-in-laws, Jan Byrnes and Colleen Byrnes share more than
family, they both care deeply about the environment and they
both wanted to make a difference. So in 2007, Jan and Colleen
founded A World Of Green LLC™ a Florida certified Minority
Women Owned Business that is a member of GreenAmerica. The
company began as a supplier of green cleaning products. How-
ever, Jan and Colleen soon found that customers really wanted
a supply of green information. As a result, they restructured the
business into a consulting company that helps organizations inte-
grate environmental stewardship into their operations.
To overcome the common perception that going green is ex-
pensive, A World Of Green's signature seminar, "Save Money
by Going Green," focuses on low and no cost ways to green
an organization and save money. For example, a company with
20 employees can save $1,400 a year from a small behavior
change: turning off computers every night. The seminar covers
a wide range of topics like energy, purchasing, and waste. Jan
and Colleen offer customized seminars for different industries
like food service or bowling (and yes—you can recycle bowling
balls!).
A World Of Green also works with local governments to help
them implement sustainability strategies and get recognition for
their environmental leadership. In South Daytona, the city fleet
manager, partnering with A World Of Green, found a low-cost
solution to truck idling during maintenance stops. To operate
flashing safety lights, staff routinely left trucks running. The fleet
manager and A World Of Green found inexpensive strobe lights
with rechargeable batteries, that fit in traffic cones. The crews still
have safety lights, they don't have to breathe diesel exhaust, and
the city saves thousands of dollars annually.
Implementing sustainable solutions can bring recognition. Cities
and counties in Florida that practice environmental stewardship
can apply for The Florida Green Building Coalition Green Local
Government certification. To qualify, the government must docu-
ment a comprehensive list of criteria. A World Of Green helps with
this process by evaluating departments, making recommendations,
and conducting the certification assessment. A World Of Green
helps governments get greener faster and more comprehensively,
which translates into more efficient operations and, is increasingly,
a condition of local government grants.
Jan and Colleen are currently designing a webinar on green jobs
for women. Talk of green jobs has centered on tool belt jobs like
construction. The A World Of Green webinar will explore how
green jobs are broader and encompass areas like green purchas-
ing. They believe that training in greening can provide women
with the job skills to take advantage of this new marketplace.
Where does this drive to make a difference come from? Jan Byrnes
and Colleen Byrnes both credit their parents for their apprecia-
tion of the environment. Every summer, Colleen's family traveled
around the country, camping along the way. Jan's family also
camped and enjoyed nature; she was six months old on her first
fishing trip. She recalls her father stopping at every roadside geo-
logical and historical marker. These experiences gave both women
an understanding of the environment and the desire to protect it.
A mission that is evident in A World of Green. For more informa-
tion about A World of Green, visit www.aworldofgreen.com.
Disclaimer: EPA does not endorse any commercial company, their products or sen/ices
in any way. By including specific companies, EPA is simply providing information.
OPPORTUNITIES 61
www.epa.gov/osbp/
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3rformance progra:
Check with your state environmental regi
tory agency for performance programs ir
Government programs can be sector specific,
like Vermont's Green Hotel Program (WWW.
vtgreenhotels.org). Member hotels adopt
a set of core environmental standards and
to qualify for the top level the hotel must
meet additional standards and create an
environmental management plan.
62 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
Performance-based Membership Organizations
There are membership programs offered by government (federal, state, or local)
and private organizations to recognize superior environmental performance.
Membership requirements typically include a set of criteria and often require
ongoing performance evaluations. For example, EPA Climate Leaders members
must commit to measuring, tracking, and reducing their GHG emissions and
reporting annually on their progress. Programs sponsored by regulatory agencies
typically stress compliance with environmental laws. Like certifications, the pro-
grams vary widely so you need to consider your goals and the credibility
of the organization.
Most programs provide free publicity. They list participants on their web site,
send out press releases, and supply plaques and certificates to post at your
business. Some membership organizations include members in green directories
or web sites. Government programs may also provide regulatory benefits such
as reduced cost permits.
If you are thinking of a performance-based program, have you:
O Determined your goals (regulatory issues, marketing to the public)?
O Asked your clients what programs they require or respect?
O Researched organizations and programs?
Be a Leader
One of the best ways to promote your environmental performance is to take a
leadership role in promoting green businesses. Bob Anderson from AJ's Auto
Repair benefited from free publicity after participating in pilot programs with the
regulatory agency. Bob Bechtold and his company HARBEC Plastics are regu-
larly profiled in industry publications and Bob is frequently invited to speak at
conferences. Being a leader is often rewarded with awards, articles, and press
releases. While being a leader is good for business, the best reward is promot-
ing ideals that you believe in.
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We hope that this guide will help you achieve your vision and
turn your business green. The process of becoming sustainable
may not always be easy or the decisions clear, but your efforts
are important. You will give consumers a greener option and
lead other businesses toward sustainability. As the case studies
in this guide show, sustainability can also make your business
more profitable and secure.
Don't forget to:
• Include sustainability in all of your decisions and actions.
• Communicate your efforts.
• Be a leader in your industry and community.
• Always strive for improvement.
Good luck on your efforts to make your business more
sustainable.
CONCLUSION 63
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Definitions
Alternative fuels - Non-petroleum fuels, defined by the Energy Policy Act of 1 992 to include biodiesel,
electricity, ethanol, hydrogen, methanol, natural gas, and propane. They may or may not be considered renewable
(see Renewable energy below). For example, biodiesel and ethanol are renewable fuels, while propane and natural
gas are non-renewable.
Beyond compliance —Achieving above the minimum results required by environmental law.
Biodiesel — Renewable fuel made from agricultural resources such as vegetable oils, including soybean oil, canola
oil, and sunflower oil. Biodiesel is also made from recycled cooking oils and animal fats.
Carbon footprint — The sum total of an entity's greenhouse gas emissions, usually given in carbon dioxide
equivalents (CO2e). Usually calculated from a greenhouse gas inventory, which is a quantitative estimate of an
organization's greenhouse gas emissions and sinks.
Climate change — The significant change from one climatic condition, such as temperature or precipitation,
to another that lasts for an extended period of time (decades or longer). Climate change can result from natural
factors, such as changes in the sun's intensity and ocean circulation, or human activities, such as burning fossil fuels
and deforestation.
Environmental footprint — The total environmental impact of an organization's or individual's activities.
Environmental Management Systems (EMS) - A structured set of processes used by an organization
to systematically improve environmental performance.
64 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Environmentally-preferable purchasing (EPP) - Purchasing decisions that include environmental considerations,
also known as green purchasing.
Global warming - An average increase in temperature near the Earth's surface, possibly leading to changes
in global climate patterns. Global warming is commonly attributed to emissions of greenhouse gases from human
activities.
Green purchasing - Purchasing decisions that include environmental considerations, also known as environmentally-
preferable purchasing.
Greenhouse gas (GHG) - A gas with heat-trapping ability that can contribute to climate change. The six main
greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, sulfur hexafluoride, hydrofluorocarbons, and
perfluorocarbons.
Greenwashing - Misrepresenting or making unsubstantiated or irrelevant claims about the environmental attributes
of a product, service or organization.
Life cycle analysis - Analysis of the environmental impacts of all stages of a product's existence including resource
extraction, production, transportation, marketing, use, and disposal.
Particulate matter (PM) - A regulated air pollutant composed of tiny particles from a variety of sources.
Post-consumer content - The amount of material that was diverted from the waste stream after use as a consumer
product.
Recycled-content - The amount of material in a product that was diverted from the waste stream.
Renewable energy- Energy resources such as wind energy, solar energy, biomass, hydropower, and geothermal
energy that renew or replenish naturally in a relatively short period of time.
Sustainability- Balancing environmental protection, economic growth, and social responsibility to ensure an
improved quality of life in the present and in the future.
Triple bottom line - A measure of business success that considers environmental and social performance in addition
to financial performance.
APPENDIX A 65
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Resources
Regulatory Compliance
The Small Business Environmental Home Page
www.smallbiz-enviroweb.org/
Resource funded by EPA Small Business Ombudsman with information on a wide range of environmental
topics for small businesses and assistance providers.
EPA Small Business Compliance and Enforcement
www.epa.gov/compliance/incentives/smallbusiness/
Resources and links to promote environmental compliance among small businesses.
Energy
US Department of Energy (DOE)
www.energy.gov
DOE has information on renewable energy, energy efficiency, emissions reductions, environmental impacts
from energy use, long-term energy trends and data, and more.
Energy Star
www.energystar.gov
EPA and DOE's Energy Star program provides information and guidance on energy-efficient products and
practices.
General Business
Environmental Management Systems (EMS)
www.epa.gov/OW-OWM.html/isol4001/index.htm
EPA's guidance on environmental management systems.
66 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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EPA for Businesses and Non-profits
www.epa.gov/epahome/business.htm
EPA resources and links for businesses and non-profit organizations.
Good Jobs, Safe Jobs, Green Jobs
www.dol.gov/dol/green
Department of Labor website with information about green jobs.
Go Green: GSA Environmental Initiatives
www.gsa.gov/Portal/gsa/ep/contentView.do?contentType = GSA_OVERVIEW&contentld=28460
U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) website with information on areas such as buying green
with GSA and green facilities.
Green Purchasing
Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Database
yosemitel .epa.gov/oppt/eppstand2.nsf
EPA maintains a database on the environmental attributes of over 600 products and services.
Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Tools
www.epa.gov/epp/
ERA's EPP page has information on general and product-specific purchasing tools, guidance for federal
purchasers, information for vendors, and information on finding and evaluating green products.
Product Certifications
BioPreferred
www.biopreferred.gov
USDA catalog of biobased products that are made in whole or in part from biological products, forestry
materials, or renewable domestic agricultural materials, including plant, animal, or marine materials.
Design for the Environment (DfE)
www.epa.gov/opptintr/dfe/pubs/proiects/formulat/formpart.htm
DfE is an EPA program that recognizes business partners that demonstrate leadership in designing
products that are safe and environmentally friendly.
EcoLogo
www.energystar.gov/products
EcoLogo is a certification program for environmentally-preferable products developed by the Canadian
government for 120 categories of products.
APPENDIX B 67
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business.gov
www.business.gov/expand/green-business/green-marketing/green-certification.html
Provides information and links on green certification and ecolabeling.
EPA - Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP)
www.epa.gov/epp/pubs/otherepp.htm
Links to national and international organizations committed to developing environmentally preferable
purchasing standards and products, and/or promoting environmentally preferable purchasing practices.
USDA Organic
www.usda.gov
The US Department of Agriculture certifies organic goods made from plants and animals produced
without using traditional pesticides, fertilizers, growth hormones, genetic modification, or antibiotics.
Sector-specific
EPA National Clean Diesel Campaign's Clean Construction USA
www.epa.gov/otaq/diesel/construction/index.htm
Clean Construction USA, part of the National Clean Diesel Campaign (NCDC), is an innovative pro-
gram designed to promote the reduction of diesel emissions from construction equipment and vehicles.
Protect the Environment: At Work
www.epa.gov/epahome/workplac.htm
EPA's guide offers environmentally-friendly practices for the office workplace.
Retail Industry Portal
www.epa.gov/retailindustry
EPA's online source for information on environmental compliance and sustainability for retailers.
Lean
www.epa.gov/lean/
Guidance on methods for reducing waste for the manufacturing sector.
68 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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Transportation
Fueleconomy.Gov
www.fueleconomy.gov
EPA and DOE provides information on fuel economy, fuel saving tips, transportation environmental
impacts, fuel use calculations, and more.
Green Vehicle Guide
www.epa.gov/greenvehicles
Interactive online tool to compare environmental performance across vehicle classes.
Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center
www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/about.html
Clearinghouse of transportation publications, tools, data, and related information sponsored by the
DOE.
SmartWay Transport Partnership
www.epa.gov/smartway/index.htm
EPA's SmartWay brand identifies products and services that reduce transportation-related emissions.
Waste
Waste
epa.gov/epawaste/
EPA's comprehensive source for information on waste reduction and recycling.
WasteWise
www.epa.gov/epawaste/partnerships/wastewise/index.htm
EPA's voluntary municipal solid waste reduction partnership program for businesses, local governments,
and non-profit organizations.
Pollution Prevention (P2)
www.epa.gov/p2
EPA's P2 program helps reduce waste at the source; information on pollution prevention strategies such
as modifying production processes, conservation, non-toxic chemicals, and re-use.
APPENDIX B 69
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Water
Water
www.epa.gov/water
EPA provides information on water-related issues and resources including sustainability and efficiency.
WaterSense
www.epa.gov/watersense
EPA's WaterSense Program promotes water-efficient products through the WaterSense label and partners
with businesses and non-profit organizations to bring water-efficient products to market.
References
1 Manget, Joe, Catherine Roche, and Felix Munnich. January 2008. Capturing the Green Advantage for Consumer Companies. The
Boston
Consulting Group, Inc. www.bcg.com/impact_expertise/publications/files/Capturing_Green_Advantage_Con-
sumer_Companies_Jan_2009.pdf
2 Municipal Solid Waste in the United States. 2007 Facts and Figures. U. S. EPA. Office of Solid Waste. EPA530-R-08-010. Novem-
ber 2008.
3 Manget, Joe, Catherine Roche, and Felix Munnich. January 2008. Capturing the Green Advantage for Consumer Companies. The
Boston
Consulting Group, Inc. www.bcg.com/impact_expertise/publications/files/Capturing_Green_Advantage_Con-
sumer_Companies_Jan_2009.pdf
4 EPA web site www.epa.gov/water
5 Putting Energy Into Profits: Energy Star Small Business Online Guide. 2007
www.energystar.gov/ia /business/small _business/sb_guidebook/smallbizguide.pdf
6 www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/choosing.shtml
70 SMART STEPS TO SUSTAINABILITY
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United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
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