Planet

What It Is Green building certifications are based on scoring methods that rate how “green” buildings are and incentivize the development of high-performance, efficient buildings at any stage, from renovation to construction.  Certification is based on standards and voluntary guidelines that each specific certification defines and requires.  Most certifications offer …

What It Is Renewable energy is energy that is naturally replenished from the Earth and comes from natural sources.  Some major sources of renewable energy include solar, wind, biomass (biological material for biofuels), and geothermal heat.    Why It Matters High energy prices, shrinking oil reserves, degradation from gathering resources, …

What It Is Recycling electronics is a way to reduce the negative societal, human health, and environmental impacts resulting from the improper disposal of electronic waste, or “e-waste”.  Recycling e-waste will: (1) reduce the potential for electronic products’ hazardous materials to harm humans and ecosystems (2) extend the life of …

What It Is Chemical reduction methods are ways in which businesses can lower the chance that chemicals (usually from janitorial products) make their way into soils and waterways. Below are some common claims found on “environmental” chemical products [1]:   Non-toxic: Implication that product will cause no harm to consumer or …

What It Is Tracking energy use involves monitoring, recording, reviewing, and analyzing energy bills and data on a regular basis so that you can identify how energy is used, and reduce costs and consumption.   Why It Matters             Tracking energy usage is an important first step to understanding how your …

What It Is Composting is a natural process that turns decomposed organic materials into a rich soil called compost.  Composting involves mixing yard and organic waste in a pile or bin and mimicking conditions that support the process of decomposition.  Decomposition is fueled by millions of microscopic organisms (i.e., bacteria, …

What It Is A carbon footprint measures the impact of various daily activities on the environment. The calculation measures the amount of greenhouse gases produced day to day from the burning of fossil fuels for electricity, heating, and transportation.  A normal carbon footprint can be divided into two portions, the …

What It Is Sustainability certifications are generally third party assessments of products where the certifying organization evaluates the products against a number of specific agreed upon standards.  Often these certifications are not required, but may be weighed by customers when comparing their product choices and options. A number of these …

What It Is Zero Waste is the idea that absolutely no trash or other types of solid waste generated in a business or home are sent to a landfill.  It goes beyond recycling in that it strives for the most efficient use possible for all materials and that those materials either return …

What It Is Environmentally friendly office supplies go beyond recyclable paper or toner cartridges.  A wide range of products are now available, ranging from desk supplies and flash drives to packing materials and calculators. A burgeoning market of office products manufactured using environmentally safe methods and renewable resources is thriving, …