Archive for March, 2009

Even with the downturn in the economy companies are still focusing their energy on being more sustainable, understanding their business operation and incorporating green business into their general business practices. Consumers are paying attention to the company’s commitment to the environment and sustainability. They have realized that they have buying power and with their purchases can support those companies that embrace the same values they themselves have. Unfortunately, many consumers rely heavily on the company’s advertisement and marketing of their green programs and sustainability commitment. This can lead to bad decisions on the part of the consumer and the degradation of consumer confidence. For more information read The Greenwash Guide by Futerra Sustainability Communications. Fortunately, most businesses have good intentions just bad execution. A sustainable business is more than a sustainable product and a green logo. A truly sustainable business requires an internal commitment from their corporate team to not only provide the world a better product but also improve the operation that developed the product.

Most companies have begun to realize that going green is essential to their well being as a business. Even small businesses are finding that they must implement green strategies into their business in order to remain viable in this marketplace. Small businesses are often suppliers to larger corporations and these companies are imposing their green values on their suppliers. Businesses are realizing that sustainable practices must be integrated into their corporate culture to be competitive in today’s market place.

In order to effectively implement any program within an organization of any size, the employees must be informed and educated on what the expectations are and how it will work. Green programs are no different. A CEO cannot expect that, by writing sustainability into the mission statement and adding a recycle bin to each work station that the green program is implemented. Each employee must be told that environmental responsibility is now formally incorporated into the business philosophy. Assuming that all employees will understand what items can be recycled simply by placing a bin under their workstation is absurd. These programs should be written out and each employee must be given the information on the program and that they are expected to participate. Goals must be conveyed and employee suggestions should be taken on how to improve the program.

Training and education are the key pieces to implementation of any new process or program, green programs are no exception. Check with your city or county, they often can provide you with training resources.