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Going Green in the Office

July 30, 2011 by

computer monitor

Image by Mediajon via Flickr

A collection of wires and satellite codes, maybe a little direct.tv in the break room, the small hums of technology: your office is a dedication to progress. All shelves are stuffed with gadgetry; all space is claimed to the precision of circuits. Business demands immediacy — and the value of electronics could never be denied.

It could, however, be turned off.

The world is changing. What once a plead for carbon and natural resources has been redefined. The masses are clamoring for protection, are trying to shift all efforts toward environmentalism. The process has not been an easy one, but it has been persistent — and companies are now having to offer their own forms of support.

Accomplishing such support seems problematic, however.

It doesn’t have to be.

The simple act of turning off all electronic equipment while they are not in use can have immediate effects. Computers and similar products generate carbon — which is harmful to both the environment and individuals. Allowing these items to power down during the day will reduce emission rates by over 30 percent (as well as eliminate excess energy, which will help to lessen the strain on natural resources). And choosing to turn off all equipment for the entire night will ensure a 50 percent decrease of waste.

These numbers are impressive and shouldn’t be refused. By simply pressing a button, individuals can help to generate clean air and undo the cycle of electric dependency. The rewards of this are many and must be embraced.

Environmentalism is not a challenging process. Companies can instead apply it with ease.

Filed Under: Environment, Green Businesses Tagged With: , ,

What Is Water Conservation?

June 17, 2011 by

What is water conservation? This method of conservation helps to protect the waters of the world.

Why Water Matters

After being told for years by health experts that we need to drink as much water as possible, now we’re being told to conserve it? Yeesh, make up your mind, why don’t you? Water conservation is a bit more serious than just drinking seven glasses of water instead of eight. When you drink water, you are taking it from the water supply, but you eventually will, well, release it back into the world, via your toilet. The problem with water conservation in the world is that there are so many people, but the water supply is pretty much fixed. The water we have now will continue to be the water we have tomorrow.

The water we use is essential for:

  • Hydration – The human body can only survive three days without water.
  • Cleaning – Water is a natural solvent which helps to clean nearly anything.
  • Transportation – Humans use ships and animals use their fins or flippers to move from one point of water to another.

And this doesn’t even begin to touch how important water is for those animals that are living in the world too who need to drink water, bathe, etc.

Water matters and we need to find ways to conserve as much as possible so that we can always have what we need, when we need it. Though the world may not run out of water, it might begin to run out of clean water if we’re not more aware.

Changing Water Habits

In the smaller forest ecosystem, the value of water is seen clearly. When the waters dry up, animals die and then the plants die, and the forest dies. Just a few small things can help to stop this process from occurring:

  • Water should be used sparingly – When you need to use water for a shower or dishes, use as little as possible. Run a dishwasher which controls the amount of water in the cycle.
  • Avoid using bottled water – These bottles are filled with nothing more than tap water and they are wasteful.
  • Avoid using water for unnecessary tasks – Though some might think washing their car is necessary, most of the time, it’s more for vanity. Try to limit the water you use on your car, your lawn, and for outdoor activities.

While it might seem like your home is far away from the first where the water conservation matters, each drop of water you save helps to support the entire water ecosystem.

Filed Under: Environment

Why Conservation Matters

June 17, 2011 by

Learning why conservation matters might just motivate you to make those trendy green changes you’ve been considering.

Conserve Now for Later

It used to be that only shaggy haired hippies were the ones talking about conservancy. They used to chant and sway while keeping others away from the trees in the forest. Twenty years later, they are the ones who are chopping down the trees, though there are fewer trees now than there ever were before. What has happened to the idea of conserving the resources we have?

Right now, it seems we’re more interested in making money from the resources we have now than focusing on saving the resources in order to make money later. But perhaps that’s just what it looks like to some. For those who consider themselves to be forest stewards, it might be time for a new look at the way that resources are being used up. Let the facts speak for themselves. The fact remains that any resources which is limited in its supply is going to be used up eventually. Once it is used up, we can not use any more. That’s all there is to it. It’s like when your mother gives you one dollar. Once that dollar is used, you can’t use it again.

The Effects of Conservation

When you don’t use that paper cup instead of using a reusable cup, it’s true; you’re not going to see any instant benefit. While you might be filled with pride that you’re better than everyone else (greener than thou?), you’re not making an immediate difference in the environment. And for many, this is enough to get them to stop trying any sort of green action. However, there are long term effects of conservation which need to be kept in mind:

  • More natural resources for later
  • More time to develop renewable resources
  • Sustainable economy and production
  • Greener environment
  • Less pollution

Now, this doesn’t mean that we need to stop using resources – that’s where a lot of people get scared off of conservancy discussions. What is important is that people begin to conserve and to think about what they’re using. Maybe you don’t need to use paper cups all the time. Maybe you can use a travel mug. Maybe you can use cloth bags to get your groceries instead of plastic bags.

Conservancy is baby steps toward a better world in which we do have all of the resources we need in order to continue to compete in business.

Filed Under: Environment

Recycle — And Save Mother Earth

April 8, 2011 by

‘Reduce, reuse, and recycle’ is the phrase that was originally coined to encourage folks to become environmentally aware of the impact they have on the earth. While recycling has been the biggest push out of those three actions, it is still critical to pay attention to the other two.

The ‘reduce’ part of going green refers to reducing the amount of things that you consume. Reduce your use of items where possible. Reduce the amount of canned soda pop that you drink so that there are less aluminum cans going to the recycling center. Reduce the number of take-out meals you buy so that you have less Styrofoam containers to throw away. Instead of using paper towels, use cloth towels.

Reusing items that you have not only saves on the environment it also saves on the pocketbook. Refill your ink cartridge instead of buying new ones. Remake adult sized clothing into clothing for children. Buy rechargeable batteries so you have fewer batteries thrown away.

Recycle your technology. Each year, tons of technology ends up in a land fill. Cell phones, computers monitors, television sets, old VHS or DVD players could be sold through classified ads or yard sales. They could be donated to a local charity organization or schools. Many stores that sell electronics are willing to buy back your old electronics and dispose of them for you.

Make sure you have recycling bins in your home. Label them for plastics, aluminum, and paper. Make sure each family member uses the bins when throwing items away. Contact your city offices to see about recycling collection so that they can stop at your home to empty your bins.

http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/595768

Filed Under: Environment Tagged With: , ,

The Benefits of Donating Cars for Charity

April 5, 2011 by

You may be one of the millions of people who have an old car that isn’t needed any more. It may be because you’ve upgraded to a more energy-efficient car or you’ve moved to the big city and don’t have a need to drive anywhere. The only problem is deciding what to do with the old car that you don’t need any longer.

If you are purchasing a new car, then you’ve probably considered trading it in; the problem with this is that a dealership isn’t going to give you much for the car. You could sell the car yourself, but while this sounds like a good idea, it really isn’t. Older cars waste a lot of energy and emit harmful toxins into the atmosphere so when you sell your old car, you’re not helping the situation. Hence, the next logical solution is to recycle your car by donating it to charity.

There are some great benefits to this. First, you’ll be helping others with your donation. There are many charities like Kars 4 Kids that will gladly come and pick up the car from your house. They may do a number of things with the car such as auctioning it off or cutting it up and selling the scrap metal to help cover their expenses or provide new materials for underprivileged people. Another benefit you’ll receive when you donate your car is that it is tax deductible. Therefore, if you have an old car you need to be rid of—donate it. You’ll be helping people in need, reducing energy waste, protecting the environment and receive an extra tax deduction!

Filed Under: Environment Tagged With: , ,

"Green" Businesses

March 5, 2011 by

Do you know what it means to be labeled as a “green business”? This refers to businesses that are finding ways to conserve energy, reduce harmful emissions, or be proactive in their recycling efforts. Being labeled as a “green business” is a good thing. Business that fall under this label show that they are making an effort to protect our environment, reduce waste, and are investing in our future. Many environmentally conscious individuals have made a commitment to only purchase items from or do business with companies that are labeled as “green.”

For quite some time “going green” was the thing to do. However, with some of the difficulties and issues we have seen with the economy there hasn’t been quite as much emphasis placed on this with big businesses lately. Many researchers, however, have continued to work towards more “earth friendly” items and are continuing to develop and market these items.

Bionic Power, Inc. is a company that has found a way to use your body’s energy to power batteries. They have created a device that straps to your leg and will charge portable batteries while you are walking.

Feelgoodz has begun manufacturing “eco-friendly” shoes that use a variety of natural materials and recycled paper to produce these shoes. The materials used to create these eco-friendly shoes include hemp, bamboo, natural rubber, and recycled paper.

One company that is doing a lot to protect our environment and our health is White Wave Foods. This company has been recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency for their efforts in the use of green power to power their manufacturing plants which produce primarily organic products.

Filed Under: Business Benefits, Environment Tagged With: , ,

Get Creative With Your Recycling

February 27, 2011 by

Recycle, recycle, recycle… we hear it all the time. Besides the basics of recycling which includes separating your trash, recycling your plastics and glass products, recycling papers and newspapers, etc. there is another type of recycling that many people are catching onto now. How about getting caught up in the “art” of recycling!

By learning new and creative ways to use things, recycle things, and create new things out of old things; you will not only be helping to preserve our environment and reduce waste, but you will also be saving yourself money in the meantime. Here are some creative ways for you to save money while saving the environment!

Instead of throwing out your bacon drippings, put them in a jar, add food scraps, pop the whole thing in the refrigerator, and when it is set pop it out of the jar and add a string. You now have a bird cake to hang outside!

Don’t just throw out old sheets or torn clothing. Get creative. Make a quilt, use them as dust cloths, or save money on wrapping paper and create unique gift wrap with old pieces of clothing, sheets, or other unusable fabrics.

Stop throwing out all of your empty toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls. Save these and reuse them. These cardboard rolls work great for children’s craft projects or as a cable tie for all those lose cords that are always getting in the way.

One of the biggest wastes is food waste. Rather than scrape those scraps and leftovers into the trash, why not compost them? Simply put together all of your food scraps and add them to your compost pile or pour directly on your garden spot to compost during the months when your garden is not in use.

Filed Under: Business Benefits, Environment Tagged With: , ,

Improve Your Customer Satisfaction

February 11, 2011 by

It’s very important that you improve customer satisfaction if you want your business to continue to do well. Of course, you may already have customers who are quite happy with you, but that doesn’t mean that they have everything that they need, or that there’s nothing you could improve upon. To keep customers truly happy, there are several things that you need to do, including offering services that are specific to them and being more personal with them. They like to feel as though they’re dealing with fellow human beings instead of a faceless company, so be sure to show them the human side of your business. One of the best ways to do that is to respond to questions and concerns that they have about products or services that you offer.

You can save a lot of time and money in the long run by making the effort to improve your customer satisfaction. It may seem like such a small thing, but it’s very important and it can make a huge difference in what customers think about your company. If you use online surveys to find out what your customers think, you’ll also be doing the environment a favor by not mailing out a lot of paper all the time. It’s a great way to protect the planet, and you don’t have to cut down trees or drive around going door to door to get survey information.

Don’t forget that there are a lot of customers out there, and if they already buy from your website it only makes sense to reach out to them online. They already use computers, and they’ve already purchased from you, so just utilize what you already have to make sure that your customers are happy. That way they won’t feel as though what they think doesn’t matter to you and your company.

Filed Under: Business Benefits, Environment Tagged With: , , , ,

Green Building: The Right Choice

January 24, 2011 by

Many cities, such as Riverside, California, are promoting green building initiatives, and Riverside Property Management is among the agencies that are spreading the word about the benefits of green building. Green building initiatives are important for local economies. These efforts help to largely reduce energy usage. In addition, wherever green building initiatives are present, it leads to the creation of new jobs, bolstering the local economy.

Riverside Property Management Promotes Green Building Initiatives

Agencies that promote green building initiatives provide local economies a much-needed service. By offering web pamphlets on green building practices, Riverside Property Management increases awareness about these issues. The importance of using lead-free paint, for example, is stressed to reduce the adverse effects of lead on the health of building occupants. Using denim to insulate buildings is promoted as an environmentally friendly way to insulate buildings. The use of recycled steel is promoted to encourage reuse and recycling as much as possible.

Developers are also reminded during the permitting process about other ways to save energy. Installing efficient lighting is important for lowering a resident or business owner’s power bill. Air conditioning systems that are properly installed and monitored are also discussed and are important for guaranteeing an energy efficient building. Roofing systems must be sustainable and specific roofing materials are encouraged to block against leaks and allow for proper ventilation.

The Impact of Green Building on the Local Economy

The efforts of Riverside Property Management and other agencies to educate developers and distribute information are important for the long-term progress and stability of the local economy. Keeping energy costs low and constructing buildings that are sustainable in the long term create economic stability. Additionally, the construction of buildings that comply with green principles requires specialized skills and knowledge. This creates new jobs to be filled by workers who have gained the necessary expertise to construct buildings that are durable and energy conserving.

Filed Under: Environment, Green Construction Tagged With: , , ,

Recycled Construction Materials

January 19, 2011 by

You know of the benefits of recycling on the environment and do your part to recycle at home. Were you aware that the products you use when building or remodeling your home can be from recycled sources? Who knows, maybe some of that plastic you recycled has come full circle and is being used in your home project!

Plastic is recycled into many different household items. Type 1 plastic which is used in soda, juice, and liquor bottles as well as peanut butter jars and some oil jars can be recycled into carpet fibers and some types of fabrics. Type 2 plastics which is heavier and used for containers used for milk, juice, detergents, bleach and motor oil is recycled into trash containers, lumber substitutes, and other useful items. Type 3 plastic or PVC which is used in windows, doors, shower curtains, and other similar items can be recycled into garden hoses, sewer pipes and fences. Plastic types 4 through 6 which are plastic wrap, food containers, and Styrofoam can also be recycled into items such as plastic wood, carpeting, or furniture.

Paper that has not been contaminated can be recycled into construction products such as cellulose for insulation, cellulose fiberboard, or gypsum board sheeting materials. Glass is another recyclable material that is used in the construction industry. Recycled glass is used in fiberglass insulation, window glazing, and wall and floor tiles.

Aluminum and steel can also be recycled, although they must be recycled separately. Aluminum can be made into window components and flashing material. Steel is recycled into structural framing, framing connectors, and nails.

Other than the materials constructed from recycled items, there is another type of construction recycling that can be done. When building or remodeling a home you may want to consider saving yourself some money as well as contributing to recycling efforts by purchasing used items such as doors, lighting fixtures, cabinets, and more from a construction “recycling” store such as Habitat for Humanity’s Re-Store.

Filed Under: Alternate Fuel, Environment Tagged With: , , , ,
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