Enjoy a wide variety of testimonials that inspire and demonstrate how big and little things make a difference. There are thought provking stories about business innovation, big picture thinking, a delightful comment from a parent that planted trees with a school class and much more.
Normally the Community Marketing Blog brings you marketing tips, social media best practices and features on how companies are beating the recession. Our contribution to Green week was running group discussions and collating what LinkedIn professionals are doing to make the world a Greener place. Please circulate this information and extend the reach of great people that are making big and small changes that benefit all of us.
Story 1 - “I have been working closely with a client who offers Energy Efficient Mortgages. I have learned so much from him about how businesses and home owners can save money and natural resources by building green. Check out his blog. http://myenergyloan.wordpress.com/”
Kristen Rosgaard GetUWired
Story 2 - “I have signed up for Georgia Power to install a switch on my exterior AC units that they can flip ever so often to assist in saving energy and money.” Valerie Phelps-Kellar Accounting Associate at Bowen Family Homes
Story 5 - “Here are some things I've advocated at my company, some successfully, some not:
Setting everyone's printer to print double-sided as a default -- I was unsuccessful in getting the IT department to change everyone's settings (too much work, I guess), but I do put the tip + instructions on how to set the default in our employee newsletter. I also use the employee newsletter to advertise other
green tips, like shutting your computer off at night.
Reducing paper cups -- This was actually quite successful. As an internal branding initiative, I got mugs for every employee, imprinted with the company logo and a message for our 10th anniversary. This has drastically reduced the paper trash. We've moved to recycled printing paper (that one was pretty easy).
For the company holiday card, we moved exclusively to e-cards, and our customers didn't miss it. In fact, at another company I was at, several customers emailed to say they appreciated it. We used the money that would have been spent on cards for a charity donation for an organization that was related to our industry.” Tracey Croughwell Marketing Communications Manager
Story 6 - “I have opened a blog site called fyi for property managers to discuss ways to green your properties and also offer advise on managing properties with informative websites that include energystar.com to save tax money on going green with your investment properties.” laura mccabe Property Manager/Coordinator
Story 7 - “My wife and I started an eco entrepreneurship "Whale Tails Tortilla Chips" that gives back to "sea" life in a different way. We have brought ocean conservation to the retail snack aisle. In that process, we have developed productive relationships within our regional markets that have increased awareness of the marine environment and have provided support for various organizations actively involved in community based ocean conservation and stewardship activities.” Rick Kraszewski New Account manager at Whale Tails Tortilla Chips LLC
Story 8 - “I have planted 2 new plants at my daughter's Kindergarten.” Eva Conklin
Story 9 - “I recently started volunteering some of my time to my local Sierra Club chapter—helping them publicize upcoming events. There are a lot of green-minded organizations that could use help in the marketing communications area from professionals like us. And I'll be picking up garbage off the streets of my town with other locals this Saturday as part of a town cleanup day.” Dominique Mendez Marketing Communications Consultant & Freelance Writer
Story 10 - “Our company has implemented composting at our headquarters and our Olympia, WA office just took up residence in a Platinum LEED certifed facility. Just today we added our GREEN mission statement to our corporate Web site: http://www.jbsinternational.com/site/Pages/about-culture.aspx.” Heather Coleman (Desmarais) Senior Communications & Marketing Specialist at JBS International
Story 11 - “www.gov.ca.gov Top Story about a million trees.” Kathi (Wall) Sikich Wellness Coach
Story 12 - “Our company Pietzo (www.pietzo.com) provides user-friendly and eco-friendly hybrid e-bikes for commercial enterprises, educational institutions and government organizations.” Kathleen Goodwin Senior Account Strategist at KG Partners
Story 13 - “Every day is Earth Day and every day I try to make a difference even if it is something very small suck as shutting the water off when I am brushing my teeth. I also try to shut the lights off when I don't need them or am out of the room. As a tribute however to the "official" Earth Day I normally plant a tree each year in my back yard and will continue on the tradition this year!” Ronald Clune Looking for a job as a assistant media planner.
Story 14 - “Here's my comment: this link, www.middlebury.net/op-ed/global-warming-01.html, provides actual science concerning global warming. Please read and consider it as you ponder Earth Day today.” Jonathan Oaks Aviation Nut
Story 15 - “We are one of the sponsors at an Earth Day event benefiting the American Lung Association local chapter at Barney's at the Galleria, Houston, including our donation of a gift box door prize with an Organic Spanish Tortilla, Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho, Domecq Sherry Syrup for Fruit, and a Fair-Trade Chocolate Tea Bread. Also see my blog post in honor of Earth Day, "20 Ways to Green Your Event, including a discussion of organic vs. local/seasonal food"--I blog at http://partyplanningblog.blogspot.com.” Kristina Rios de Lumbreras Owner/Partner, FANDANGO Catering
Story 16 - “One of my good friends who runs the organic delivery service Greenling (www.greenling.com), Mason Arnold is celebrating Earth Day in Austin, TX!” Jeffrey Fry General Partner at Firefly Funds
Story 17 - “Well, I am working hard on "making our world greener". In my younger years I focussed on the European Paper Industry, today I try to setup an ECO Smart Network providing Conferences, Seminars, and "green" education for children.
It will get officially started on May 1st, 2009. Meanwhile please visit my webpage: www.pop-consulting.com and let me know your contact details in case you would like to receive further information about the network.” Karin Bennett Owner at Pieces of Paradise, LLC
Story 18 - “I am focusing on Taossunto's new line of LED replacement lamps to be launched soon. The new version will be 60% made in Minnesota and 100% assembled in MN as well.”
Story 19 - “Benefits of LED lighting if you don't already know: 40-80% energy savings, lasts 15-30 yrs(depends on use) and has no LEAD or Mercury like fluorescents. Screw it in and don't think about it! The easiest and fastest way to go green.” Tri Nguyen Taossunto Engineers of Light™
Story 20 - “April is Earth Month at FlexJobs and to celebrate, they will donate a tree for every new FlexJobs subscription! Visit www.flexjobs.com.” David Hehman Chairman & Publisher at Spartina.com
Story 21 - “Celebrating Earth Day by wearing green, drinking limesicles, and eating green vegetables. Also researching how my home and business can be Greener. Already switched to LED lighting.” Rose Mary Brown Gift Baskets and Gift Collections
Story 22 - “I am as green as the environment and the laws here allow me to be. In Europe I have been a lot greener. I run a little business "Pieces of Paradise, LLC" in South Carolina, doing "Green Consulting". You might want to have a look at my website: www.pop-consulting.com.” Karin Bennett Owner at Pieces of Paradise, LLC
Story 23 - “Our company just announced a green initiative today in conjunction with Earth Day. You can see the write-up with tips and links to more here: http://www.dekkerltd.com/news.aspx?newsid=84.” Vance Kotrla Marketing at Dekker, Ltd.
Story 24 - “The Kineo Group in Chicago is working on establishing an urban farm program in inner city,underesourced communities.” Joan Beaubaire Principal at The Kineo Group
Story 25 - “I am picking up trash off the beach where I run every morning; if we humans can't stop this irresponsible act of daily littering onto our beaches, waters, anywhere...unfortunately none of this fancy green stuff initiatives gonna make a difference. So, go out there today and pick up others' litter. I assure you, you will find some within few yards from your front door.” Reha Duzel Sales Engineer at Singular Security, Inc
Story 26 - “I am a long distance runner. When I run I have a habit of picking up litter and putting in the trash. During a recent trip to Warsaw (Poland) I got so frustrated while running along the famous Vistula river because the riverside looked like a garbage site with trash everywhere. After my run I went back with my digital camera and took pictures of the scene. I travel all over the world. Eventually I will post a picture gallery by city with a ranking my cleanest and trashiest run experiences...” Adam Koniuszewski, CFA, CA Chief Operating Officer at Green Cross International
Story 27 - “I did not know it was such a day. Was it only US or global? Tomorrow, I have a journey so I have to take the train, then will drive my car more slowly as usual, take care of lightning at night and use nice candle near by the fire place.” Axel Faux European Sales & Marketing Manager
Story 28 - “ I am another Green Irene Eco-Consultant - "Greening Our World, One Home & Office at a Time." I also am active with our local Rochester Sierra Club group, and am tabling at a school event tonight. Two years ago, my eco-resource website, www.Project-HOUSE.us went live. It has hundreds of eco-tips and hundreds of links to other eco-sites, for anyone to use. Also just put in a new veggie garden with the compost I've been making for a few years. Plus I had an Energy Audit and after replacing appliances, adding insulation, & upgrading windows, I'm saving 25% of my previous gas bill, and 44% of previous electric bill." Marjorie Campaigne Owner, www.Project-HOUSE.us; Green Irene Eco-Consulting; New Millennium Counseling
Story 29 - “We help businesses convert from short life lighting to long-life and earth safe lighting products. Maintenance Engineering has been eco friendly with its Earth-Safe product line since 1974. Low mercury fluorescents, guaranteed for upto 10 years. Electronic Ballast guaranteed for 50 years. Think "Source Reduction" as your first tool for making the world a greener place. http://thelightbulbguy.net/Earth-Safe.html.” Tom Thielman Replacement Lighting Specialist
Story 30 - “I run half and full marathons too and had my share of disposing the water cups onto the grounds during races, but stopped that practice by bringing my own bottle and filling it up at water stations...simply, I can't stand the act of disposing anything onto the earth's land, waters and air...Im committed to do my share and do what ever I can do on a bigger scale as well...let me know when your album is up and running, love to check it out. Blessings.....” Reha Duzel Sales Engineer at Singular Security, Inc
Story 31 - “My latest race was the Trail du Ventoux in the South of France, 48km with 3,000 meters of vertical climb and descent. You have to be partially self-sufficient during the race as there are only 3 water and food stations. So you must carry water, some food and clothing (15km were covered with snow). If you are caught throwing anything away you are immediately disqualified. Harsh penalties also apply in other famous races like the Marathon of Sands. This sends a strong message.” Adam Koniuszewski, CFA, CA Chief Operating Officer at Green Cross International
Story 32 - “Did not drive at all this week. Banished the use of paper in the office as of January 1, 2009 (only use sheets of dry erase paper now). All invoices are electronic. Signed up with zumbox.com and get much of my mail online now. Bought new light bulbs that are supposed to save 600 hours of electricity a year (can't verify this yet). That's about all I can think of right now. My main focus has been on reducing paper, gas and electricity usage and we've been doing very well.” Aaron Emerson Father, Marketing Consultant, Blogger, Independent Publisher, Entrepreneur
Story 33 - “Been riding my bike or walking every where: to teach, meet with clients, appointments... and continue to leave lights off in rooms I'm not in; send invoices electronically - I'm not printing emails instructions or attachments; shutting down the computer daily, too.” Mary Gordon Design Consultant and Creative Direction
Story 34 - “RKAI Architects re-cycles all paper, bottles and plastic in the office. My home has recycled for years, and last night we dined on the deck and enjoyed the fresh air and our treescape.” Don Rataj NCARB RKAI Rataj Krueger Architects, Inc.
Story 35 - “TRX technologies India Pvt. Ltd. uses natural light during day time and energy saving tube lights only in the evening. Air-conditioning is used sparingly saving a lot of energy. We reuse one side printed paper in printers. The firm provides transportation to employees using minimum cars shuttle them. Employees are encouraged to switch off their monitors when away from their desks, switch off (And not simply 'Lock') PCs when leaving for the day, take prints only when necessary, use low energy consumption wallpapers and Home sites like Blackle.com etc. What we do is not a one off event but an on-going and continuous effort to be GREEN.” Afshan M Executive Assistant + Freelance Writer
Story 36 - “My agency is small - a 'Fred in a Shed' an English colleague once told me - but by eliminating my fax and going all e-mail I am sure there is a green element there. Just remember that demand for paper however causes trees to be planted. From my office window I view my garden, freshly planted again this year with peas (snap and garden), string beans, lima beans, first crop all for the table, to be followed by tomatoes and peppers later in the season. Small things do count, individually, or as a business. Start a garden for your business or in the community. That is practical as well as demonstrative/symbolic.” Mike Martel Owner, MMC, Inc.
Story 37 - “No Fuel Racing, Owner Rick Wilson has taken the first step towards the first ever Gravity Green Track to be developed. This track will be ready for next years EARTH DAY.. GO GREEN OR GO HOME !!” Rick Wilson World Class Streetluger
Story 38 - “An industry making changes to day-to-day production techniques and practices (i.e. organic cotton) is so much more important than what happiness on one day of the year. The Bullfrog Power add in the Globe is telling us of high-profile companies that are trying to do something. I think Dr. Zeuss said something about Christmas lasting throughout the year in the "Grinch who Stole Christmas". I much prefer to see recognition of what individuals and groups have done for year-round conservation and green practices throughout the year than what celebrities do on Earth Day.” Tom Brown President, T.C.Brown & Associates Inc.
Story 39 - “As a virtual company, we are making a difference through the need for very little travel - we can hold meetings with contacts around the world on one of the many virtual meeting tools. We use electronic methods vs paper for document sending, receiving and storage. An example is using a virtual fax service so we never need to print anything off, the faxes arrive via email and we save the file then forward to whomever it needs to go to and back up on our external hard drive. Of course there is always opportunity to do more! By each member of the team working from home offices, we use far less energy then we would if we had a large office space, we save on meals because we can always brown bag it and clothing can be anything from a bathrobe to an evening gown...well maybe not the evening gown...but you get the idea! DemGen Inc (www.demgen.com) is proud to be making a difference!” Pam Christie Director of Operations at DemGen Inc
Story 40 - “I have been working with a Cincinnati-based non-profit for 4 years that uses solar panel technology to supply 30-years of sustainable electricity to schools and medical clinics in developing countries. SonLightPower uses volunteer work teams that raise the funds and do the work. They have "lit" nearly 30 off the grid schools in Honduras and are now working with the Honduran Healthy Schools program founded by the First Lady. They have asked SonLight to bring solar power to more than 400 additional schools in that country. You can learn more at their website, www.sonlightpower.org.” Robyn Carey Allgeyer PR pro passionate about telling your story - via media, social networking, events, compelling writing.
Story 41 - “I try to live more sustainably every day, all year long. I remember the first Earth Day and am heartened at some of the progress we have made, but our national appetites for energy and consumer goods do not seem to be abating much. I hope that the effects of this Earth Day will last longer and produce greater long-term changes than Earth Days during the past eight years under a different administration. (At our house, too.)” Jon Spangler Effective writer-editor for marketing communications, grants, and advocacy (transportation and environment).
Story 42 - “The environment is a great cause. It has only been the last few years that anyone has ever really cared. Unfortunately, America is one of the leaders in its current state, but as always we are the great hope. In America, we are lazy. It is about easy, convenient, and BIGGER IS BETTER!! I pray we really do take Earth Day to heart. My wife and I started recycling last year for the first time and 90% of what we throw out is recyclable. We can all make a difference, even if it is in its smallest measure, but it is our changing mind that will make the biggest.” Chad Rothschild
Story 43 - “Mahatama Gandhi's message on environment protection that "Nature has given us enough for everyone’s need, but not for everyone’s greed" is more relevant in current unsustainable economic development and environmental degradation.” K. Shah
Story 44 - “These are some of the things I try to do; recycle as much as possible; avoid using the car by taking public transportation or walking; not wasting anything, especially water, hot water, electricity, heat, etc; avoid buying and consuming unnecessary products; eating at home and buying organic foods. I know there is still so much to do, and I am willing to do more and more in order to reduce my footprint, together with my family's too.” Angela Deiana Environmental Services Professional
Story 45 -Alliance for sustainable fruit procurement. All bananas used in Naked Juice’s 100% all-natural products will now come from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms that meet environmental, social, and economic criteria to ensure sustainable and just farming practices. Banana farms, once criticized for deforestation, are being transformed into sustainable businesses that provide products that consumers can be proud to support.” Jennifer Poulson Account Supervisor l Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide
Story 46 - “Every day should be Earth Day for those of us who are in the green movement. At home water and energy reduction are first priorities, recycling is a way of life, eliminating waste, paper reduction are simple things everyone can do easily. Commercially, pushing your company to focus on environmental initiatives, social and economic sustainability is key. The commercial market has such a massive impact on waste, recycling, energy, water consumption that we must do better everywhere.” Bill Guandolo
Story 47 - “On Earth day, as on every other day, I will be continuing to enlighten businesses to the simple fact that reducing energy consumption, either by switching things off, or implementing energy efficiency measures, not only reduces harmful CO2 emissions, but also reduces their energy costs!” Andrew Fletcher
Story 48 - “On Earth Day I will continue to lead by example. I am a professional comedian who has been pedaling a fully-loaded touring bicycle to my stand-up comedy performances since June 20, 1987! In that time I have pedaled more than 150,000 miles to all 50 states (Hawaii was not easy), and throughout 33 countries on five continents.” The Bicycling Comedian
Story 49 - “I am growing 6 different types of tomatoes in honour of earth day. I am using Rootblast fertilizer and tomatoblast fertilizer which are both environmentally safe, pestiside free, hormone free and safe for your family, children and pets! I am a guest presenter for this product on The Shopping Channel in Toronto, Canada!” Nicole Mckinney
Story 50 - “For Earth Day Grapeflix will show for free a feature length documentary exploring the ravages of American suburban sprawl, “Sprawling From Grace: The Consequences of Suburbanization”. http://www.grapeflix.com/Category/frmCategoryDisplay.aspx?CategoryID=3585
As a digital media distribution company Grapeflix contributes to Earth Day by allowing Green advocates to be heard all over the planet!” Grapeflix Blogger-in-Chief
Story 51 - “On Earth Day, I'll bring some of my online green gift store's gifts to a small 2-hour celebration held by a large law firm which is adopting more green practices. I enjoy meeting people and showing there are increasingly more attractive, available eco-friendly options for anything they want than they imagined.” Reena Kazmann
Story 52 - “Aveda has been sponsoring Earth Month throughout April (nope, don't work for them!). You don't need to get your hair done to go in and help contribute to their regional partners who are doing amazing things in the environmental arena! In the midwest, Ohio River Foundation is the recipient--please help support this wonderful organization.” J Grace
Story 53 - “PIVTR (internetvoicesradio) is giving half an hour of air time to some local (Detroit area) schoolchildren who will voice their views on the environment, conservation, and being ‘green’.” Rowena Cherry
Story 54 - “Not sure about the day but on the earth hour day, we forgot and then our neighbor called us and said our lights are on and we said "oops" then we called another neighbor and they said "oops" :-) we all ended up putting lights off for 50 mins.” Jayesh Badani
Story 55 - “Good question. I asked a similar question a few days ago on twitter and received only one response: What are you doing for Earth Day? Knox Planning event company plans on reviewing current recycling habits and defining a roles and responsibilities checklist to increase green office products. We will be reviewing our paper usage: Are we using recycled paper, how can we reuse paper, do we really need to print that document, how can we increase electronic usage vs. paper communication and in-person meetings without becoming too impersonal with clients? What can we do to better our office procedures to increase a greener environment? These are just a few questions we plan on asking ourselves not only tomorrow but for future usages.” Lisa Spegman Event Planner at Knox Planning
Story 56 - “As the professional association of the printing trade you might imagine our challenge. Remarkably, technology has evolved to enable smaller quantities of printed material and improved ROI as a result. It takes the form of variable data publishing and cross media marketing. Printers are stepping up and expanding their capabilities to this end. In addition, they are embracing various green initiatives and certifications that go well beyond the use of recycled papers to sustainable forests and reduced carbon footprints. Many will be discussing these trends at our upcoming conference called “Green with Envy” May 1 at the San Francisco Hilton.” www.pincshow.com
Story 57 - “Long before it became the in thing to do, we at Tepel Brothers Printing Company have practiced environmentally safe behaviors. We recycle our raw materials, including over 2 Million pounds of paper & 18,000 pounds of aluminum per year. We print with environmentally friendly vegetable based inks. Our facilities temperature & humidity is electronically controlled, with natural outside supplemental lighting. Tepel Brothers is an FSC certified printer who monitors its’ carbon foot print.” Toni McLaughlin Print Consultant at Tepel Brothers Printing Company
Story 58 - “We just launched our first Citizenship Report (www.ni.com/citizenship) that outlines our 2008 business performance and goals for 2009. This includes things like the removal of paper and styrofoam from our cafeterias; installation of motion sensors in the lavatories; low water valves on all faucets; installation of energy efficient lighting; and the formation of the NI Green Team. This team is a grass-roots, employee-led team with 8 focus areas and over 158 members and counting. They do things such as helping to arrange carpooling and a nearby metro rail stop; conducting evaluations of our packaging and printed documentation; and possibly starting an on-campus community garden. This team planned our Earth Week agenda that includes multiple greenbag lunch n' learns, recycling tables for education, and sign-up sheets for volunteer activities.” Heidi Baschnagel Director, Marketing Communications at National Instruments
Story 59 - “I am the Queen of recycling...I even bring home bottles and cans from people's home who do not recycle. I also am including in every seminar a plea for going green...and especially to start with first step: RECYCLE!” Anne Sadovsky Owner at Anne Sadovsky
Story 60 - “At Blue Tent Marketing, we've decided to launch our Computer Recycling Program on Earth Day as part of our ongoing Blue Tent Green Initiative. In partnership with Aspen's Community Office for Resource Efficiency, and Carbondale's YouthEntity, we've joined forces to collect old computer equipment and peripherals for reuse, refurbishment and recycling. To learn more about our effort, please read the press release here: http://www.bluetentmarketing.com/images/BTM/BTGreen/BTM_CompRecycling_PR.html” Josh Lewis VP Marketing - Blue Tent Marketing
Story 61 - “Why not just simple things that people can do at home? In our house we set up a compost bin to process kitchen and yard waste, florescent lighting, computerized lighting that turns off when not in use, electrical power-factor optimization, and I have more projects in mind. Most of this was done by me on a DIY budget.” Oleg Dulin Software Engineer
Story 62 - “Not as much as it could be quite frankly. My awareness / activity has increased dramatically the last few years, But I still allow myself to make poor choices out of convenience and expediency. My largest contribution (in the works) is trying to be one of the first to get a truly green car. Either an Aptara electric, or MDI air car
http://www.aptera.com/
http://www.mdi.lu/english/
My preference would be the air car, but I think it more likely I can get the Aptera than the MDI in the near future. Not to mention that the Aptera is just seriously better looking.” Dale Hans SaaS Application Developer
Story 63 - “WILD Foundation is convening the 9th World Wilderness Congress in Merida, Mexico November 6-13, 2009. Now actively engaging students and young professionals, ages 13-29 globally to make progress on climate change and wilderness conservation as a most effective mitigation strategy. Actively seeking sponsors and delegates to join 1500 business leaders, government ministers, NGO's, musicians, celebrities, artists, environmentalists, and conservation change agents. Come be the change and be changed!” Kat Haber Affinity Rep at HaberVision.com
Story 64 - “I am running a large event to the general public on April 27. www.realhumanbeing.org I am encouraging car-pooling and doing away with plastic bottles and paper handouts. The philosophy I teach on BD and networking skills can be interpreted as an environmental one: "give back more than you take." Dave Howlett RHB Founder and Managing Director of RealHumanBeing.org
Story 65 - "In my role as Dean of the School of Business at Kendall College, I have organized a workshop series.
"It IS Easy Being Green: Earth-Friendly Strategies for Businesses Small & Large".
Here's the info:
How can you better market and serve customers electronically?
How can you shift your services to online delivery?
What are some earth-friendly workforce strategies?
How can you take a more environmental approach to materials and workplace design?
We consider these questions in sessions led by key subject matter experts. Join us for one session or for all four.
Attend any or all of these FREE workshops offered to our Kendall community of students, parents, alumni, staff, faculty, business associates, and members of the public. Learn more and register today by emailing Michelle Coussens, Dean, School of Business at: mcoussens@kendall.edu. Registration is required and reservations are limited. A light lunch will be provided.
• How to Market and Serve Virtually with Less Footprint and More Heart – Saturday, May 2, 10:45 am-12:15 pm Presenter: Gail Sussman Miller, Owner, Inspired Choice
• Banking on a Greener Future… Why Sustainability Has Bankers Seeing Green – Monday, May 4, 12:30 pm-2:00 pm Presenter: Jon A. Levey, LEED® AP, Co-Founder & Chief Lending Officer, GreenChoice Bank
• The Emerald Office: Eco-Friendly Workforce Strategies– Monday, May 18, 12:30 pm-2:00 pm Presenter: Kyra Cavanaugh, President, Life Meets Work
• LEED the Way to a Greener Business Environment Today! – Saturday, May 30,
10:45 am-12:15 pm Presenter: Michael Pula, Senior Analyst Relations Manager, Panduit Corporation
All Workshops are free to the public with pre-registration and held at Kendall College (near the intersection of Halsted and Chicago). Room location is provided upon registration confirmation. Parking is free in our Events Parking Lot.” Michelle Coussens Business Planner Extraordinaire! Dean, School of Business, Kendall College; Owner, Plan B Consulting
Story 66 - “Simple things. Not saying that our $*@# doesn't stink, mind you. A little browsing the internet and careful thought. But the best thing we found is that some things are not only better for the environment, they are also cost savings!
* we worked out and installed a more energy efficient lighting system for our green screen studio, replacing Kino Flo's and space lights: less heat in the studio and lower electricity bills
* infra red switches in the toilets were installed to turn off the lights automatically
* a strong preference for a tapeless workflow: P2 memory cards, hard disks
* (headed) paper is only sent when absolutely necessary: e-mails only
* meetings down town are done by bicycle: no parking meters, (try finding a spot in the first place!)
* last but not least we switched to green energy
Story 67 - “I realize that we still have a long way to go, but the commitment is there. Happy Earth Day!” Oscar Esajas new business @ Get Across & Studio Amstel
Story 68 - “I personally participated in the following event that was produced by my client: In honor of Earth Day, Senator Lou Correa, the Community Action Partnership of Orange County and Obama OC Organization, along with members of the Young Senators club and residents from surrounding communities canvassed an Anaheim neighborhood to educate low income families about energy conservation and free weatherization and utility services.”
Story 69 - “The Earth Day Community Event, which took place on Saturday, April 18, 2009, is part of an on-going effort to “Renew America Together”, and was sponsored by the Community Action Partnership through funds they received as a result of President Obama’s current stimulus package. Income qualified families were offered the opportunity to sign-up for weatherization-energy audits and comprehensive retrofits, as well as free refrigerators and weatherization services for their homes.” Morgan McKean Brand Strategy & Marketing Communications Consultant
Story 70 - “I'm in the recording business (music and audiobooks) and own a recording studio in Bergen County, New Jersey. Over 1/2 of our power is provided by solar panels. We have replaced incandescent bulbs with fluorescents and I'm obsessive about turning lights off when not in use. In addition, my wife is on the Environmental Commission in our town. The Commission has successfully enacted a "no idle" ordinance and will be working on educating the public about turning off their car engines - there is already a law in New Jersey against idling, but it is rarely enforced. We participated in an Earth Day celebration in our community and had a booth explaining where our water comes from and why it is critical to conserve water. The amount of water wasted on watering people's lawns is staggering. In addition, the use of harmful chemicals for lawn enhancement is an ongoing danger to our water supply. We also explained that bottles or chemicals that enter stormdrains end up in our oceans. Education is the key in making people aware of the consequences of their actions. We can all be part of the solution and that is a choice I believe properly informed and concerned citizens will make.” Louis Milgrom Owner at Milgrom Productions
Story 71 - “Although not exactly a result of my business, as a business representative member of our local school council (public), I spearheaded an effort to motivate our senior high school students to get involved in community service on Earth Day as a student body. All communication about this event is published through email and screened on the in-room communications.
* This is our fourth year for Community Service Day
* This year we are serving 19 local venues (parks, shelters, orphanages, other schools, roadsides, etc)
* We had merely 150 our first year with 10 chaperones, this year we expect over 500 with 70 chaperones.
* We have seen students continue to serve at some of the venues following the experience on their own.
* Our community has gotten involved at businesses are donating supplies, food and drinks.
The goal is to help our kids realize how important their personal efforts are in making our world a better place.” Dutch Bickley Production Manager, Director, Consultant, Editor, Videographer, and Producer
Story 72 - “In Belgium in Limburg a province an initiative was launched where people could get a kit containing plastic wastebin, gloves and a special stick with which you can pick up waste from the ground. So, me and a familiy member cleaned a street in a rural environment ( 700 meters long). When done we had a full wastebin of about 40 kilo's. We went by some houses of really very rich people in that street, they were looking is if we were insane, but did see some interest also. In fact we need to make manking more responsible for their act, and get more respect for the environment as this generation has been thought that there is no limit to the freedom of men. I think we soon be learning a lesson in humility. But most important is that the only way to change is to start with oneself and give examples. Nothing is more powerfull than good examples. Society is lacking great examples. But people forget they can be the example themselves, so let's start with ourself.
At least one street is clean now - hopefully our example is followed - if we get everybodies mindset for this we will get a cleaner planet.” Eric Van Oppens Project Manager at IBM Belgium
Story 73 - “My little magazine TravelingDiva.com is never orinted (online mag only) and we'll be dedicating a special column "Pamper Me Green" for green travel and green businesses starting with a story on GreenHouseVideos.com, the new green consumer reports. If anyone reading this would like to submit an article/story/blog/pictures to promote your green business, please send it to: diva@travelingdiva.com. Happy Earth Day!” Yeni Alvarez Professional Female Voice-Over Artist
Story 74 - “JB Metrics has spent the last five years developing Web based business applications which allow companies to run their entire operations via a web browser. This means that companies are able to replace desktops with 90% more efficient netbooks combined with "Green" servers which use 75% less power than traditional servers. The entire business process and reporting is all dynamically available and only available in digital PDF format (reducing printing costs for most of our customers by at least 50%). For one of our New Zealand customers, a company of 14 employees, it translates to 400 trees saved, and enough power saved to power five family households for a year). It also translates to a savings of $35,000 a year as well for the company.” James Wallis Martin Director at JB Metrics Ltd
Story 75 - “I'm planting trees with a local HS biology class. Probably discuss how trees respire CO2 and help out the climate.” Blair Zordell Env Specialist at American Electric Power
Story 76 - “1 - I live off-grid, all-solar - and all the things that go along with that!
2 - I work for a manufacturer of residential-sized wind turbines - promoting clean energy and reduced dependence on foreign oil
3 - My business is Green Starr Makeovers for you, your home, your office, and your life. I'm an Eco~Consultant for Green Irene, LLC.
4 - I support fair trade practices
5 - My life is pretty much dedicated to "Making the World a Greener Place."
Jo Starr Eco~Consultant, GREEN STARR MAKEOVERS
Story 77 - “I am a cdm analyst and our company is a biogas developer . We have installed over 60 waste to energy projects al over south east asia.” shielson sibolboro cdm analyst, environmental officer, safety officer
Story 78 - “For a long time, now, I have been a huge paper recycler. That includes using drafts of documents to print out e-mail messages (on the rare occasions I do that), receipts, and other internal documents. And when those are disposed, they go into my recycling bin.
To take that further, I do not have printed brochures. I have e-brochures: PowerPoint documents that can easily, and more economically, be sent to prospects. I also purchased flash drives (with my logo imprinted) on which I load these e-brochures to give to clients and prospects. This allows them to access the information, pass it along, and have a flash drive to use and re-use as they need it.
I also use e-fax instead of having a fax machine. This saves on toner (not a great addition to our environment), paper, and electricity.
Personally, as noted above, I recycle paper, aluminum cans, and bottles. This includes boxes from cereal, rice, etc. My town picks it up once a week.
I started doing research into "green" building and architecture almost 5 years ago for a company that produces eco-friendly fabrics for commercial use. At that time, design prof'ls were saying things like "I'd love to do more of it but clients don't want to pay the extra freight." Two years later it was more like, "I need to find more people who are trained and certified to do green building." I was stunned.” Ann Middleman Market Research Consultant and Contractor
Story 79 - “I have a 1,500 gallon rainwater collection tank for landscaping!” Deborah Peacock Public Relations / Photography
Story 80 - “On Earth Day I will continue to lead by example. I am a professional comedian who has been pedaling a fully-loaded touring bicycle to my stand-up comedy performances since June 20, 1987! In that time I have pedaled more than 150,000 miles to all 50 states (Hawaii was not easy), and throughout 33 countries on five continents.” Tom Snyders Professional comedian/ Adventurer/ Speaker/ Photographer at Self-Employed
More Stories Added Since We Published...
Story 81 - “In January, The Medicines Company moved into its own Global Center and to commemorate Earth Day, we are planting a tree as a symbol of growth and environment preservation on our grounds. Our Chairman will say a few words and dig the first shovel of dirt as we celebrate this day and our efforts to provide a sustainable work environment to our employees.” Rebecca Hollins Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Events at The Medicines Company
Story 82 - “About 25 years ago I had a passive solar, super insulated home designed and built in New Hampshire. Today, I contribute to the green movement by writing about green homes in consumer and trade publications. My most recent article can be found at: http://link-url.com/mclaughlingreen” Camilla McLaughlin Writer and Editor, freelance
Story 83 - “OK, I felt bad about being acerbic, but a little vinegar makes a better chocolate cake. My agency is small - a 'Fred in a Shed' an English colleague once told me - but by eliminating my fax and going all e-mail I am sure there is a green element there. Just remember that demand for paper however causes trees to be planted. From my office window I view my garden, freshly planted again this year with peas (snap and garden), string beans, lima beans, first crop all for the table, to be followed by tomatoes and peppers later in the season. Small things do count, individually, or as a business. Start a garden for your business or in the community. That is practical as well as demonstrative/symbolic.” Mike Martel Owner, MMC, Inc
Story 84 - “I work in the garment industry and we are working on launching an organic cotton brand which would carry organic cotton and ethically made garments.” Ali Asghar Dossa Manager Marketing at Uniform Garments
Story 85 - “I started a non-profit two years ago to produce a documentary examining the sustainability of modern society's insistence on perpetual economic growth. It's called Hooked on Growth: Our Misguided Quest for Prosperity, and will end up exploring the connection between attaining true happiness and living more lightly on the planet. Turns out that sacrifice is what we're doing now - sacrificing our lives and our planet to the worship of growth everlasting. It's now 80% shot and I'm attracting supporters from around the world who want to help get this film out. Check it out and join the cause at www.growthbusters.com.” Dave Gardner Owner, Visions West and Public Relations and Communications Consultant
Story 86 - “Being a Virtual Assistant, I do my best to keep my work 'virtual'. What I must print and is not held in client files is used to it's fullest by printing on both sides and using for scrap. When there isn't any white space left, it is recycled through the local Boy Scout Troop's paper and cardboard recycling collection trailer. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!” Michele Randolph Virtual Assistance for Reliable Efficient Outsourcing - Send Out Cards Distributor
Story 87 - To celebrate Earth Day at the Green Cross International Headquarters in geneva we have organized a staff meeting to brainstorm ideas on how we can adopt greener lifestyles. Our network also organizes a number of events including a drawing contest in BieloRussia in which over 8,000 kids participated.
http://www.greencross.by/en/article/menu.php?id_page=82&id_menu=49&id_level=
by Adam Koniuszewski, CFA, CA
Ready to get started with social media? We are actively reviewing how hundreds of companies are working with social media and continuously applying what we learn. Presently we are able to reach over a million professionals without spending one dollar in cash through our social media networks. To obtain the support of this author for articles, speaking or launching a social media program contact Andrew Ballenthin, President of Sol Solutions – 416.317.7313 andrew@solsolutions.ca.
All rights reserved. © Sol Solutions 2009.
Having been a part of the Online Universal Work Marketing team for 4 months now, I’m thankful for my fellow team members who have patiently shown me the ropes along the way and made me feel welcome
www.onlineuniversalwork.com
Posted by: davidbaerd | January 25, 2010 at 11:31 PM
This is why some of our customers use Orangehalo.com They not only want to be greener, but they also want to increase their branding and market presence. One customer bought from us because he needed printed t-shirts for his company, he went to the only exclusively eco-friendly promotional product company in the United States, Orangehalo.com. He saved over 17,000 gallons of water and nearly 50 lbs. of pesticides by using organic cotton t-shirts instead of conventional cotton. Each organic cotton shirt saves 120 gallons of water and 1/3 lb. of pesticides, encourages organic cotton farming and reduces cancer rates among cotton farmers.
Posted by: Robert Minskoff | April 27, 2009 at 09:18 PM
Hi. I am impressed to note so many professionals passionately working towards Greener Earth. I,along with my team in my organisation, have contributed as well for this cause. we decided to move in small steps, practical tips and involving every one - clients, employees. We listed tips on how t SAVE water in our daily lives - office, home and every one is involved to share these tips. Some talked about plugging leaks in te office washrooms, some talked about wastage control at home during washing, etc.
Posted by: Ruchi Bhatnagar | April 26, 2009 at 12:32 PM