9.5 THE STRATEGIST IN YOU: Taking Steps Towards a Greener Brand

SHARED FROM:

(SHORT NOTES FROM STRATEGY TOOLS:

Manufacturing and Operations at http://www.mindtools.com)

Green initiatives are fundamentally important for some consumers.  Likewise, green issues appeal to employees because most people want to be part of "something good".  The biggest boon for organizations that address green issues is an improved brand and company image.

Employee health represent another significant reason for moving towards green management.  Improving indoor air quality and avoiding strong chemical cleaning agents can help those suffering from respiratory illnesses or skin conditions.  Being greener can help improve relationships with customers, suppliers, government agencies, and the media.

Green initiatives can also reduce costs.  The savings depend on the size of organization and the steps taken to reduce energy consumption.  Finally, green initiatives can stimulate innovation.

Steps to a Greener Office
1. Watch Power Use	Replace regular bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) or light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) Encourage team members to turn off lights when they aren't using them Consider installing motion sensors in shared areas Electronic devices such as computers and printers continue to use energy even when they're turned off.  Encourage team members to switch it off when they're done for the day. Consider switching to laptops make use of natural light to save power, take advantage of light from windows, and turn off overhead lights
2. Think Twice Before Purchasing	Have a greener option
3. Use Reusable Products	eating utensils: look for dishware that you can wash and reuse use cloth drying towels or energy-saving hand-dryers instead of paper towels in bathrooms Switch to plant-based, biodegradable dish soap
4. Plant Trees	plant trees around your building: can help reduce air conditioning costs shading air conditioning unit from hot summer sun help block cold winter winds can reduce winter heating costs
5. Telecommute	Allow team members to work from home one or more days each week great benefits: don't waste time sitting in traffic saves gasoline and prevents carbon emissions create a carpool information board or intranet page to connect people who use similar routes to work Encourage team members to walk, bike, or take public transportation to the office
6. Limit Business Travel	limit business travel
7. Create a "Green Team"	Members are responsible for seeking new ways to lighten the organization's footprint, and should also report on it