Get Started
Take early action. Focus on these first actions which are inexpensive and easy to implement.
1. Formalize your Green program:
- Form a Green Team with members from your organization to bring new ideas to the table and help implement plans.
- Divide duties among Green Team members. Engaged, informed, enthusiastic employees make for a successful program – so keep it fun!
- Write an environmental policy (be sure to capture the actions you’ve already begun to take) and communicate it to your employees. How to start? Check out the extensive sustainability policies of Michigan’s own Ford Motor Company to help develop ideas applicable to your business. Another excellent resource, especially for smaller businesses, can be found at the U.S. EPA website.
2. Best bets for early success include:
- Recycle (paper, aluminum, plastic, etc.)
- Save paper by setting your copier and printer defaults to double-sided
- Buy copier paper with a minimum 30 percent post consumer recycled content. (100% is best!)
- Save energy – turn off lights when not in use and unplug electronics after hours.
- When you need to buy new office equipment or appliances, be sure to purchase Energy Star.
- Install faucet aerators and check for leaks on a regular basis to help save water.
- Buy less toxic cleaners to improve indoor air quality.
- Learn about financial incentives to implement green initiatives at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency. Federal Government incentives are also referenced at this site. Guide your green strategies to capture the latest cash and other incentives.
