HOW TO GREEN YOUR BUSINESS
OPERATIONS
Agenda



Introduction
The Triple Bottom Line Approach
Steps To Green Your Business: Operations










Adopt Energy Efficient Practices
Conserve Water
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Waste
Prevent Pollution
Design, Buy, & Sell Green Products
Build Green
Comply with Environmental Regulations
Develop and Environmental Management/Sustainability Plan
Join Industry Partnership and Stewardship Programs
Questions and Comments
What is Sustainability?



Sustainable Development meets the needs of the
present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs. (Brundtland World
Commission)
Continuous improvement of life quality that protects
and balances the ecological, social and economic
environments. (California Student Sustainability
Coalition)
Sustainable development is a process which enables all
people to realize their potential and improve their
quality of life in ways which protect and enhance the
Earth’s life-support systems. (Sarah Parkin & Jonathan
Porritt, Forum for the Future)
Source: "Sustainability Defined." Natural Capitalism Solutions. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
What is Sustainability?

It demonstrates that behaving in ways that are more
responsible to the earth and to people:

Reduces costs through eco-efficiency

Provides easier access to capital

Reduces risks by being more responsible

Better attracts and retains the best talent

Drives innovation by setting such ambitious goals as rapid carbon
neutrality

Enhances labor productivity by constructing green buildings

Enhances brand equity

Better manages supply and value chains

Reduces the costs of distrust by operating in an ethical and transparent
manner
Source: "Sustainability Defined." Natural Capitalism Solutions. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
The Triple Bottom Line
Approach
Source: “Princeton University Outdoor Action Sustainability Guide.”
Adopt Energy Efficient
Practices

ASHRAE Standards


Design & maintenance of indoor
environments
Energy Audits

3 General levels of energy audits

Lighting

Energy Star Equipment

Heating, Ventilating, and Air
Conditioning (HVAC)


4 Steps to achieve more sustainable
HVAC system
Renewable Energy
ASHRAE Standards

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and AirConditioning Engineers (AHSRAE)

Develops standards for those concerned with design and maintenance
of indoor environments

Guide for Energy Efficiency:
 Heating
 Ventilation
 Air-conditioning
 Refrigeration

ASHRAE Offers:


Classes, seminars, expose in the U.S.
New energy technologies, energy saving opportunities
Source: Ashrae. N.p., n.d. Web.
Energy Benchmarking


Process for describing the energy performance of a
building at a point in time and for comparing that
performance with similar buildings
Sample Measures of Building Performance

Energy cost per square foot

Energy (BTU) per square foot

Energy (BTU) per occupant

Energy Use Intensity-EUI-(kBTU/sq. ft./yr.)
Typical EUI Values
Energy Star Portfolio Manager

Benchmarking Tool



Provides information to determine
how a building ranks compared to
others
DOE Commercial Building
Energy Consumption Survey



Tracks Performance & Trends
Provides data to create the model
Rating reflects a building’s Energy
Use Intensity (kBTU/sq. ft./yr.)
Sectors Covered:

Offices, Banks, Hotels, Retail Stores,
Supermarkets, Warehouses
Source: "Portfolio Manager." Portfolio Manager. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Energy Auditing

Pre-site visit analysis:


Site visit:



Review building plans, Construction of documents (historical energy
use)
Walk-through to inspect all energy consuming systems (photos, conduct
interviews)
Post-site visit analysis and reporting:

Engineering and financial analyses

Identify potential building energy efficiency measures
Audit report:

Detail the building’s baseline energy use and potential energy savings

Rank-ordered list of measures based on cost-effectiveness
Types of Audits


Most common and standardized approach
offered by ASHRAE
ASHRAE Level 1:


Preliminary Energy Use Analysis:


Preliminary Energy Use Analysis, brief walk-through
of the building, and a survey of the energy consuming
equipment
Review of utility years from the previous 2 years.
Energy use intensity (EUI)= energy use per square foot
will be obtained
Audit Report:

Identifies no-cost and low-cost measures . Energy
savings estimates are not highly accurate
Types of Audits


ASHRAE Level 2:

Comprehensive view at building energy use through a survey of all
building systems including

Heating, Cooling, and Interior Lighting
Audit report:


Includes estimated energy savings and project costs
ASHRAE Level 3:

Detailed engineering and financial analysis.

Accounts for the interactive effects of all building system improvements.

Often uses computer models to stimulate building and equipment
operations
Energy Savings Opportunities

Occupational Behavioral Changes

Improved Operational and Maintenance Practices

Equipment Retrofits


Retrofit: the physical and operational upgrade of a building’s energy
consuming equipment
Building Envelope Modifications
Occupant Behavioral Changes


Protect thermostats from
unauthorized adjustment

Wide range adjustment of thermostat
(ex. 72 to 85)

Consider using tamper-proof locking
covers on thermostats, or locking screws
to prevent tampering
Optimize Start-Up Time and
Equipment Sequencing

Determine when equipment is turning on
and how many pieces of equipment are
turning on at the same time.

Peak demand is lower if equipment is
brought online in a sequential manner
Picture:"Thermostat." (Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy and Sustainable Living). N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Occupant Behavioral Changes

Encourage building occupants to use ENERGY STAR
Equipment


Install Monitor Power Management Software


Adapt Procurement Policy to purchase ENERGY STAR labeled products
Over $1 billion dollars wasted a year on electricity from computer
monitors left on
Encourage building occupants to turn off equipment

Office equipment should not consume energy during down time

Install motion sensor lighting

Install energy efficient windows

Greener Cleaning Options

Look to use green cleaning products

Day Cleaning- Clean during the day when lights are on
Source: "Product Image Library - Bulbs." ENERGY STAR. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Lighting Your Business


Lighting uses
44% of the
electricity in
office buildings
LED lights can
save $5 per year
per bulb
“Quick Win” Energy Savings
Measures


Lighting:
De-lamp and disconnect unused
ballasts



Many buildings are too bright
Identify what you can discontinue using
Install:






Occupancy sensors
High efficiency LED exit signs
Time controls or photocells for exterior
lighting
T5 or T8 light bulbs
CFL and HID
Energy efficient windows
Picture: "Mathematics of Planet Earth." Mathematics of Planet Earth. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Illustrative “Deep” Retrofit
Measures

Lighting:

Add skylights and light pipes




Including a redesign of the lighting system
to reduce the number of fixtures.
Upgrade interior lighting and add
lighting controls
Upgrade exterior lighting and add
controls
Reduce lighting power density and
manage energy use in tenant spaces

Using ambient, direct/indirect, and task
lighting
Pictures:"Choosing Skylights for Your Metal Building." Choosing Skylights for Your Metal Building. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
"SOLATUBE SKYLIGHTS." Inhabitat Sustainable Design Innovation Eco Architecture Green Building SOLATUBE SKYLIGHTS
Improved Operational and
Maintenance Practices


Heating and cooling energy expenses can amount to about
$1000 or more annually
Simple Steps to reduce cost:

Change air filters regularly

Properly use programmable thermostats

Have the heating and cooling equipment maintained annually
“Quick Win” Energy Savings
Measures

Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation (HVAC):

Add automatic door controls


Replace existing wall fans



Shut off cooling when doors are open
High-volume, low-velocity equipment instead
Install doors between conditioned and unconditioned
spaces
Install variable speed ceiling fans
Illustrative “Deep” Retrofit
Measures

Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation (HVAC):

Replace HVAC system and thermostats

Chiller plant retrofit

New air handling layout and installation of variable air volume units


Install CO2 sensors for control of outside air brought into the building
based on occupancy levels
Replace or refurbish boilers and switch from central to modular system
Illustrative “Deep” Energy
Saving Measures




Building Envelope:
Install high efficiency windows with suspending coated film and gas
fill
Install insulated reflective barriers
Upgrade the roof by increasing reflectivity, or installing vegetation,
or upgrading insulation
More Renewable Energy



Only 6.3%
renewable energy
used in the U.S.
U.S. aims to get that
number to 10-20%
Pennsylvania aims to
have 10%
renewable energy
by 2025
Entering the Renewable Energy
Market


Financial Incentives: many available incentives for buying
renewable energy
Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
(DSIRE)



Energy Services Company (ESCO)


The property rights to the environmental, social, and other non-power qualities
of renewable electricity generation
Green-e: certification to consider for renewable energy


Identify and evaluate energy savings opportunities, then recommend a package of
improvements and savings
Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)


Lists incentives and regulations for renewables in your area
Offers tax deductions for energy efficiency
Certifies environmental commodities and products that mitigate climate change
and help build a sustainable energy future
3 Types of Renewable energy can be certified:

RECs, utility green pricing programs, competitive electricity products
Renewable Energy: Solar


Cleanest and most abundant source
Four Types of Solar


Versatile:


Panels can be installed in various areas (rooftop, ground,
etc.)
Government is challenged with scaling up
incentives to encourage production of solar
energy


Photovoltaic (PV), Heating and Cooling Systems,
Concentrated Solar Power, Lighting
Drives price down
Costs and Benefits:



Building 50% more efficient; increases property value
PA offers rebates and tax incentives for solar systems
Upkeep inexpensive and many business offer free inspection
Renewable Energy: Wind

Fastest growing renewable energy sector

Three Models of Wind Power Ownership


Lease: lease your land to a commercial-scale wind energy developer

Community: group, organization, or entity develops and owns a commercialscale project in the community

Small Business: you, your business own and operate a small-scale turbine
Benefits/Risks

Wind energy often brings in positive cash flows after initial investment

Government has incentives that can get businesses started

PA Net Metering Program: gives retail credit for every watt of electricity
produced

Less predictable than solar: wind movement varies

Opposition due to wind or visual obstructions of turbines
Renewable Energy: Biomass

Accounts for 53% of all renewable usage in the U.S.



Clean, Cheap, and Available
Five Biomass Categories

Virgin Wood: forestry, arboricultural activities, wood processing

Energy Crops: high yield crops grown for energy applications

Agricultural residues: residues from agriculture harvesting or processing

Food Waste: from food and drink manufacturer, preparation and processing,
and post-consumer waste

Industrial Waste: from manufacturing and industrial processes
Benefits/Risks

Burning to covert to heat has negative effects and wastes energy

Biomass could play a big role with the worlds shifting reliance on foreign fuels

Biomass is needed to make ethanol and biodiesel, 2 most common biofuels
Renewable Energy: Low Impact
Hydroelectric

Of the five renewables, most used in the world

Least clean renewable

Hydro energy involves:


Building dams, reservoirs, and sometimes power plants to
capture water

Water captured and put through turbines to produce energy

Process can be damaging to natural habitats and use a
significant portion of a community’s water supply
Benefits when not abused or overused:


Minimal pollution, water provided free by nature, reduces
GHG emissions, low operation and maintenance costs,
technology reliable and proven, fuel is consistently available
Other renewables more popular in U.S.

Lower investment, greater availability, limited impact on
environment
Renewable Energy: Geothermal




Five step process that involves extracting heat
from the earth’s surface
Most predominant in Hawaii, Alaska, and other western
states
Most abundant in geologically and seismically active areas
Geothermal becoming a possibility in less geologically
active areas


New technologies and techniques
Benefits/Risks

Requires a geologist or scientist to locate the best position for
drilling and an engineer to oversee the process

Water used could potentially be bio-hazardous and must be
disposed of properly to be considered clean

Construction of plants costly, but return on investment can be
profitable
Goal Setting


Once the potential for improvement has been estimated,
goals can be established at the appropriate organizational
levels.
Energy performance goals should be:

Formally established

Recognized by senior management as a mission for the entire
organization
Goal Setting

Specific quantity or percentage reduction


Best-in-class


Aims for a certain level of performance compared to an established
benchmark
Threshold goals


Example: 10 percent reduction or a decrease of 300 million Btus
The minimum acceptable level of performance.
Stretch goals

Levels beyond the minimum or targets that are used to create an
incentive for greater achievement
Project Planning &
Implementation

Develop Implementation Plan

Define technical steps and targets

Determine roles and resources

Implement selected operational improvements
Project Planning &
Implementation




Create a communication plan
Develop targeted information for key audiences about your
energy management program.
Raise awareness
Build support at all levels of your organization for energy
management initiatives and goals.

Build capacity

Motivate

Track and monitor
Performance Tracking


Verification of achievement of performance improvement
during and following the completion of a project, ideally based on
bill analysis
Performance feedback helps to evolve performance
program guidelines and goals to reflect realized savings
Picture: "Six Tools for Tracking Energy Performance." Six Tools for Tracking Energy Performance. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Certified Energy Manager

AEE’s Certified Energy Manager

Most widely recognized energy management
credential worldwide

Energy cost savings of 5-15% quickly
obtained; eventual savings of 30% is common

Five-day in-depth, comprehensive learning
seminar that improves understanding of:



Cost Reduction Techniques, Energy
Management, HVAC, LEED, Life Cycle
Analysis
Certified Energy Manager Exam & Final
Certification
Certified Energy Manager Training Program
offered here at Duquesne University
Source: Guide to Energy Management, 7th Ed.
Energy Efficiency:
Contributions to the TBL



Economic

Energy-saving light bulbs save $5 per year (per bulb) in utilities

Energy Star equipment provides 20% savings on utility bills

State financial incentives available for renewable energy & energy
efficiency projects
Environmental

Renewable energy is clean

Comes from natural sources (sunlight, wind, water)
Social

Improves health and quality of life for your employees and stakeholders
Conserve Water

Low-Flow Toilets

Sensor Faucets


Controls Usage

Less Leakage
The Water Footprint
Calculator/Water Audit
Business’ Water Usage

Water
Conservation

Produces cost
savings

Better
management
of pumps,
pipes, and
maintenance
saves money

Water usage
decreased by
35% in many
businesses by
installing high
efficiency units
Business' Typical Water Usage
10%
40%
15%
Washing Clothes
Kitchen
Shower, Bath, & Faucet
Toilets
35%
Low-Flow Toilets

Urinals offered

Allows for a 20% decrease in water use per flush

Average sized business uses 112,200 gallons of water
annually on toilet usage

Cost per flush is$0.002

Savings by changing to a low flow toilet are more than $1000 annually
TOTAL
SAVINGS and
Average
Payback/ROI
Payback
Time in
Years:
Water Efficient 2.0
Toilets
Added
Cost:
Annual
10 Year
Return on
SAVINGS SAVINGS Investment
(ROI):
$50
$1,320
Source: "Master ROI Table." Master ROI Table. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
$11,360
50%
Sensor Faucet

Saves water by controlling usage based on movements

Saves water because it is less likely to leak

Reduces spread of germs in the bathroom


Employees healthier and able to work
Many have aerators that reduce water usage while retaining
spray coverage area
TOTAL
SAVINGS and
Average
Payback/ROI
Payback
Time in
Years:
Added
Cost:
Annual
SAVINGS
10 Year
SAVINGS
Return on
Investment
(ROI):
Low Flow
Faucets
(4 faucets)
3
$300
$100
$1,000
33.3%
Source: "Master ROI Table." Master ROI Table. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Water Use Tracking

Organizations
across the country
measure and track
water use

Over 50,000 buildings

Use the U.S. EPA
ENERGY STAR
Portfolio Manager

Represent close to
20%
Source: T. DataTrends (n.d.): n. pag. Energy Star. Web.
Water Footprint Calculator



Reasons to track water usage

Physical risk: companies may increasingly face freshwater shortage in
their supply chain or operations

Reputational risk: corporate image may be damaged when questions
arise among the public about equitable water use

Regulator risk: governmental interference and regulation will increase

Financial risk: previous risks may translate into increased costs or
reduced revenues
The Water Footprint

Widely accepted means of tracking water

Measures water usage from manufacturing to daily office use

The Water Footprint Assessment Manual available for free:
www.waterfootprint.org
Local water agency

Conduct a water audit to identify conservation opportunities
Conserve Water: Contributions
to the TBL

Economic



Provides monthly water bill savings of 35% on average
Environmental

Stabilizes the hydrologic cycle

Efficient use of energy to process and deliver water

Effective allocation of fuel resources
Social

Positive publicity

More suitable work environment
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Wastes

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Steps for waste reduction at the office

Ideas for waste reduction in manufacturing

Recycling Data

Dispose Properly of Hazardous Waste

eWaste


Donate


Unwanted electronics a the end of their useful life
Ideas for donating goods to the community
WasteWise

Assists companies with waste reduction and recycling
Where Does The Waste Go?




3 things happen to
municipal solid waste

Goes to landfills: 54%

Gets recycled: 34%

Gets composted or turned
into energy: 12%
U.S. recycling has
increased by 28%
Easy and often comes
with incentives
Many cities require
businesses to recycle
3 Things Happen to MSW
12%
Landfill
34%
54%
Recycle
Composted/Energy
Ways to Manage Waste

Reduce

Double-sided writing and printing to reduce paper use

Refrain from handing out multiple page documents when
presenting



Access to training manuals and company information
available electronically
Make digital information portable


Use overhead projectors
Tablet, Phone, Flash Drive, Shared Drive
Turn off electronics when they are not in use
Ways to Manage Waste

Reuse

Refillable toner cartridges for printers

Reusable envelopes for sending documents between departments

Rechargeable batteries

Reuse corrugated boxes for shipping supplies between
offices


Collaborate with suppliers, shippers, and customers
Refillable pens and mechanical pencils

Pens, pencils, and paper made from recycled content

Fine-point pens to save on ink
Picture: "Customer Services." Cheapest Printer Inks and Toners HP Toners Recycled Toners Mouse2Housecouk RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Ways to Manage Waste

Recycle

Paper

Batteries

Steel Cans

Aluminum Bottles

Tires

Glass Containers

Yard Trimmings

Plastics
eWaste


Unwanted electronics (computers, televisions,
telephones, etc.)
Contains hazardous materials



Lead, mercury, and cadmium
You can request a pickup of eWaste

Commonwealth Computer Recycling
(http://www.ccrcyber.com/dropoff-locations/)

ALL GREEN: Pennsylvania Electronic Waste
Recycling
(http://www.allgreenrecycling.com/pennsylvania/)
Major retailers have eWaste programs

AT&T, Verizon, Best Buy, Dell, LG
Ways to Manage eWaste

Recycle Unwanted Electronics

Phones

Computers

Printers

Audio Equipment

Televisions

Monitors

Laptops
Picture: "Free Electronics Recycling Today." 21Alive. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Donate

If you cannot use it, someone else may be able to use it

What can be donated?


Unwanted office supplies to nonprofit organizations, charities, schools

Excess building materials and supplies to local low-income housing
developers

Cafeteria leftovers for use as animal feed or compost
Where can donations be made?

Waste to Charity (http://www.wastetocharity.org/)

Goodwill (http://www.goodwillswpa.org/)

Salvation Army (http://wpa.salvationarmy.org/)

Habitat for Humanity (http://www.pittsburghhabitat.org/)
WasteWise


Free EPA offered program
Assists organizations in applying sustainable materials
management practices to:



Reduce municipal and select industrial waste
Special Initiative Areas

Paper

Organic Materials

Packaging

Electronics

Buildings
Eligibility

All U.S. businesses, local governments, and non-profit organizations
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Waste:
Contributions to the TBL



Economic

Efficient product production and packaging

Effective business operations

Donations and Reuse offer cost savings to new users
Environmental

Directs waste to more sustainable sources

Properly disposing of hazardous waste and eWaste sustains life
Social

Assists with gaining a competitive advantage in the market

Provides education to general public
Prevent Pollution

Types of Pollution and How to Prevent it


Outdoor vs. Indoor
Methods to Assess and Reduce Pollution

Footprint Measurement

Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA)



Understand Products Life-Cycle
Life-Cycle from Raw Materials to Manufacturing to
Disposal
Pollution Control Grants and Loans

Government Assistance is available to fund
pollution reduction projects
Greenhouse Gas Emissions




Energy
Atmospheric increase in CO2
(Greenhouse effect) is human
induced
Global Warming is caused by
greenhouse gases
More efficient business
practices can reduce impact on
the environment
Greenhouse gas emission by source
Outdoor Pollution

Land Pollution


Chemical and Nuclear Plants, Industrial
Factories, Oil Refineries, Human Sewage,
Mining, Littering, Landfill Waste, Debris
Land Pollution Prevention

Recycle

Reuse any items possible

Buy biodegradable products

Store all liquid chemicals and waste in
spill-proof containers

Eat organic foods, grown without
pesticides

Buy products with minimal packaging

Safer process for industrial business
Picture: "Land Pollution." Pollution. N.p., n.d. Web.
Outdoor Pollution

Air Pollution


Vehicle Emissions, Tobacco Smoke,
Coal, Combustion, Power Plants,
Manufacturing Facilities, Aerosol
Sprays
Air Pollution Prevention

Carpool or join a ride share with
friends and co-workers

Walk or bike when possible

Keep car maintenance updated

Avoid products in aerosol spray cans

Avoid using lighter fluid

Use more efficient cleaners

Inspect gas appliance and heaters
regularly
Picture: "Pollution." National Geographic. N.p., n.d. Web.
Outdoor Pollution

Water Pollution


Factories, Refineries, Waste Treatment
Facilities, Mining, Pesticides, Fertilizers,
Sewage, Oil Spills, Household Chemicals
Water Pollution Prevention

Dispose of chemical properly

Avoid throwing trash, chemicals, solvents
into sewer drains

Inspect septic system every 3-5 years

Avoid using pesticides and fertilizers that
can run off into water systems

Use non-chemical cleaning materials
Picture: "Water Pollution." Water Pollution. N.p., n.d. Web.
Indoor Pollution

Common Types of Pollutants

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

Radon (Rn)

Formaldehyde

Pesticides

Asbestos

Lead (Pb)
Indoor Pollution

Sources of Office Air Pollution

Environmental tobacco smoke

Asbestos from insulating and fire-retardant building supplies

Formaldehyde from pressed wood products

Carpet

Cleaning materials and activities

Adhesives

Copying machines

Photography and print shops

Dirty ventilation systems or water-damaged walls, ceilings, carpets

Pesticides from pest management practices
Indoor Pollution

Causes of Indoor Pollution:

Inadequate ventilation

Moisture/Condensation on windows or walls

Smelly and stuffy air

Dirty central heating and air cooling equipment

Areas where mold develops

High temperature and humidity levels

Age of source and the maintenance of it

Building materials, furnishing, and household products
release pollutants
Indoor Pollution

Effects of Indoor Pollution:

Sick building syndrome



Several people are affected
No specific source of the illness found

Indoor air quality problems cause discomfort

People feel better when they eliminate the pollution source
Immediate Effects: show up after a single or repeated
exposure

Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue

Short-term and treatable

Simple eliminating exposure to the source can be the answer

Similar to those from colds or other viral diseases
Indoor Pollution


Long-Term Effects:

Health effects that show up:

Years after exposure

After long or repeated periods of exposure
Prevention:

Install and use exhaust fans that are vented to the outdoors

Ventilate the attic and crawl spaces to prevent moisture

Clean and dry water-damaged carpets and materials

Keep the building clean

Increase the amount of outdoor air coming indoors

Have central air handling systems inspected annually

Research pollutants
Footprint Measurement








Durable Goods Calculator (DGC): Understand the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission implications of various disposal
methods for durable goods.
Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator: Calculate and communicate your greenhouse gas reduction strategy, reduction
targets, or other initiatives aimed at reducing GHG emissions.
NRC Environmental Benefits Calculator: Exit EPA Disclaimer Determine the GHG and energy benefits of current waste
disposal practices.
Office Carbon Footprint Tool: Develop an estimate of their GHG emissions from a variety of sources including companyowned vehicle transportation; purchased electricity; waste disposal; and leased assets, franchises, and outsourced activities.
Recycled Content (ReCon) Tool: Estimate life-cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy impacts from purchasing
and/or manufacturing materials with varying degrees of post-consumer recycled content.
Small Business/Low Emitter Tool: Small and medium-sized organizations, and larger service-sector businesses can use the
tools on this page to measure and reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, also known as a “carbon footprint.
Smartway calculator: Compare the costs and estimate the fuel savings associated with various efficiency technologies.
Waste Reduction Model (WARM): Track and voluntarily report greenhouse gas emissions reductions from several different
waste management practices. Calculates and total GHG emissions of baseline and alternative waste management
practices—source reduction, recycling, combustion, composting, and landfilling.

ASK SHEA

http://www.epa.gov/smm/wastewise/carboncalc.htm

http://rs.acupcc.org/stats/ghg-scope-stats/
Source: "Environmental." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Life-Cycle Analysis


Technique used to assess the environmental aspects and
potential impacts associated with a product, process, or
service
Tools for conducting an LCA


Four steps of the LCA





GaBi, SimaPro, umberto
Definition of goal, scope, and bounds
Inventory analysis
Impact assessment
Improvement assessment
Pollution Control Loans and Grants offered by:


Environmental Protection Agency: P2, PPIN, SRA Grants
Small Business Administration: Pollution Control Loan
Prevent Pollution:
Contributions to the TBL


Economic

Federal and state funding available to small businesses

The entire community benefits economically due to a cleaner
environment
Environmental


Assists in maintaining healthy biodiversity that sustains life
Social

Improves the overall health of the community
Design, Buy, & Sell Green
Products

Green Product Design and Procurement Process
 Review Guidelines




Identify Greener Materials


Conduct a materials inventory and get ideas for green products
Identify Other Product Design Improvements



Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (CPG)
Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP)
Both Guidelines put forth by the EPA
Research ways to improve packaging and delivery.
Design products that are reliable, repairable, upgradable, and
recyclable
Market Your Green Products

Get products certified or labeled and advertise the product
Making Automotive Greener

Electric



Hybrid (HEVs)

Combine the benefits of gasoline engines and electric motors

Improves fuel economy, enhances power, increases driving ranges
Fuel Cell


Elimination of CO2 emissions and reduced oil dependence
Biodiesel


Energy efficient, no reliance on fossil fuels, no tailpipe pollutants, more quiet
and smooth performance
Biodiesel is safe, biodegradable, produces fewer pollutants
Natural Gas (CNG or LNG)

One of the cleanest burning alternative fuels, less expensive than gas, reduce
greenhouse gas emissions by 30-40%
Making Automotive Greener


SmartWay Partner

EPA partnership program

Calculates fuel
consumption and carbon
footprint within the
transportation process of
the supply chain

Members are able to
choose:

More efficient carries

Assess optimal mode choices
Reduce overall
transport carbon
footprint
Making Food Greener

Organic




Meat and Seafood Labels



Food produced without using the conventional inputs of modern, industrial
culture
Makes up 2% of the U.S. food market, but is growing
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) organic seal
Ensure that you are purchasing sustainable meat
Meat labels gain support from the USDA to receive approval for a label
Buy Local




Food harvested within a 100 miles radius
Minimizes the environmental impacts associated with supply chains
Often cheaper, because retailers can afford to price it lower, since they rarely
have to pay suppliers
Creates positive brand image
Making Food Greener

Restaurants

The Green Restaurant Association

Provide certification to restaurants that meet standards for


Benefits of certification


Water & energy efficiency, waste reduction & recycling, sustainable furnishings & building
materials, sustainable food, & pollution reduction
Generates positive publicity, cuts costs, improves staff productivity & morale, builds
customer base and loyalty, stays ahead of legislation, creates a healthier work
environment
Packaging

Be innovative when creating or redesigning packaging to reduce
environmental impact

No packaging is good for the environment, but minimizing the
environmental risk should be the goal

Example: Heinz PlantBottle (2011)
Making Financial Greener

Mortgages


Home Equity Loans




Encourage the purchase of high efficiency cars
Credit Cards


Reduced rate home equity loans can help motivate customers to install
residential renewable energy technologies
Commercial Building Loans
Attractive loan designs characterized by lower energy consumption of 15-25%
and reduced waste and pollution
Car Loans


Lower interest rates for clients who purchase:
 New energy efficient homes, invest in retrofits, invest in green power and
appliances
Cards that have benefits linked to sustainable activities
Microfinance

Helps improve assets and income in countries by helping small business owners
get established
Making Healthcare Greener

Abundant dangers in hospitals and medical clinics

Very energy and water intensive sector

3 Improvements can be made


Adherence to green building standards

Reduction in water consumption

Better energy efficiency in medical equipment
Recycling Medical Equipment

Consider selling or donating equipment as it ages

Environmentally friendly and financially beneficial

DotMed: www.dotmed.com buys and sells old medical equipment
Making Technology Greener


Electronic Product Environmental Assessment
Tool (EPEAT)

Certification that covers efficiency of desktops, laptops,
monitors, and other work stations

Meet ENERGY STAR specifications

Requires that manufacturers offer an end-of-life take-back
program
Eco-Logo

Certification that has released standards for office equipment:

Copiers, printers, and malfunctional units (MFUs)

Must meet ENERGY STAR criteria

Take-back program for recycling equipment at the end of its
useful life
Making Retail Greener



Apply Standards for Own-Brand Green Products

Many retailers develop their own line of green products

Specific to their business and standards
Use Third-Party Certification

Gives products extra credibility

Numerous retailers opting for merchandise with labels developed outside of
their organization
Eliminate some of the Most Undesirable Products

Retailers are screening products that have harmful impacts on the
environment

Examples: Packaging, Plastic Bags, Chemicals
Making Retail Greener

Specialize in Eco-Friendly Products



Increasing number of retailers are catering to customers that seek out
greener merchandise
Form Partnerships

Difficult for a retailer to succeed on its own when introducing green products

Partnerships could be important in creating innovative strategies
Placement

Place products in high profile spots of your store and website
Design, Buy, & Sell Green
Products: Contributions to the TBL



Economic

Provides favorable cost savings

Build the market through business procurement of green products and
services
Environmental

Responsible and efficient use of natural resources

Improves the prospects for long-term sustainable use of resources
Social

Environmentally responsible companies are preferred by customers

Buying local products bolsters the local economy

Creates new business opportunities and jobs in the community
Build Green

A Smart Building Business Plan

Planning for a Green Building Project

Building for Energy and Water Efficiency

Green Building Materials
Picture: "FIRST GREEN CONVENTION CENTER in Pittsburgh." Inhabitat Sustainable Design Innovation Eco Architecture
Green Building FIRST GREEN CONVENTION CENTER in Pittsburgh Comments. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Green Build Trends


Green Building growing fast and has generated
government support and become a competitive advantage
Pittsburgh often considered one of the leaders of green
building


First LEED-certified college residence hall and convention center
“Top 10 Metro” for green jobs (Global Insight)


5,000 green building product manufacturers employing 200,000 people
Facts


Shown over a 20 year life period, green buildings have yielded $53 to $71
per sq. ft. return on investment
Compared to standard buildings, green building have been to: (U.S. General
Services Administration)




Lower maintenance costs by over 20%
Reduce Energy use more than 25%
Lower greenhouse gas emissions by 33%
Significantly increase occupant satisfaction
Green Building Can Reduce
Green Buildings Can Reduce
70%
SOLID WASTE
24-50%
ENERGY USE
40%
WATER USE
33-39%
CO2 EMISSIONS
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
Reduction Percentages
60%
70%
80%
A Smart Green Building
Business Plan

Do Research


Pick a specialty: 7 Categories








Understand the policies guiding green building, especially if a certification is
the goal
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Water Efficiency
Environmentally Preferable Building Materials and Specifications
Waste Reduction
Toxics Reduction
Indoor Air Quality
Smart Growth and Sustainable Development
Get Certified



LEED
Living Building Challenge
Class-G
Green Building Certifications

LEED http://www.usgbc.org/leed

Created by the USGBC

Rates design and construction practices that would define green
building

Throughout North America, in over 30 countries, with over 6,300 projects

7 credit categories to earn points:



Site Selection, Water Efficiency, Energy & atmosphere, Materials &
Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Regional Priority, Innovation in
Deign
Four Levels of Certification: Certified, Silver, Gold, Platinum
Living Building Challenge http://living-future.org/lbc

Philosophy, advocacy tool and certification program

Addresses development at all scales

7 Performance Areas:


Site, Water, Energy, Health, Material, Equity, Beauty
Provides a framework for design, construction and the relationship between
people and the environment
Green Building Certifications




Class-G http://www.class-g.org/
Mission: to enable organizations to track and improve their
sustainability initiatives
Focuses on providing an affordable, easy-to-implement
sustainability tracking program
Features






Affordability: Low-cost barrier to entry
Ease of Use: Easy to use yes/no checklist of 100+ most essential sustainability
factors
Transparency: Explicitly publishing sustainability claim and the ability for
anyone to submit comments as to the veracity of the sustainability claims
Tracking: Dashboard of all rated locations, with the ability for clients to leverage
best practices to elevate lesser performing locations
Continuous Improvement: Maintaining a wish list of planned sustainability
initiatives
Engagement: Tools to communicate to employees, customers and other
stakeholders exactly what sustainability initiatives have been implemented
Planning for a Green Building
Project

Site Selection


Crucial, as the orientation of the facility can alter energy efficiency, toxicity
levels and runoff
Planning for Waste

EPA lists steps to planning for waste reduction:

Contact local builder association, county solid waste department, or state
environmental agency

Consider whether deconstruction techniques can be used to prepare your
site for renovation or construction

Check with local salvagers before purchasing new products
Building for Energy & Water
Efficiency




The step that will likely gain the highest cost savings
Reducing energy and water usage
Install Energy Star Equipment
The Green Power Partnership Program



Water Efficiency


Tool for businesses interested in investing in clean and renewable energy
Possible savings for use of green energy and emissions reduced
Develop a water efficiency plan to understand the possible amount of
savings
WaterSense


EPA Partner, helps businesses procure third-party related and certified
water efficient goods
Products with the WaterSense label are more water efficient and
differentiated then other similar products
Green Building Materials

5 criteria to consider when purchasing products for a
green building






Resource Efficiency
Indoor Air Quality
Energy Efficiency
Water Conservation
Affordability
Procurement of Goods

Steps in Procurement Process




Procurement Language: clauses in purchasing agreement ensuring
product efficiency
Educate Vendors & Team: ensure that everyone is educated about
products
Purchase Energy Star Products
Estimate Savings & Report Them
Build Green: Contributions to
the TBL

Economic


Environmental


Savings of $62 per square foot over a 20 year period on average
Efficient waste, water, energy, and pollution practices
Social

LEED and Energy Star certifications are favored by stakeholders

Increases occupants work attendance
Develop an Environmental
Management/Sustainability Plan

Construct a “Green Team”


Implement Environmental Standards



ISO 14001: Environmental Management
ISO 15001: Energy Management
Track and Report





Functional Team within the Business
GRI: Global Reporting Initiatives (G.3.1, G4)
KPI: Key Performance Indicators
Sustainability Scorecard
Maturity Assessment
Involve Employees



Education & Training
Incentives
Individual Contribution
Why Report Sustainability
Efforts?

Reporting is becoming essential

Corporate Sustainability Reports


48% of the S&P 500 are reporting non-financial environmental and
social benefits

95% of Global Fortune 250 companies are reporting on
corporate sustainability
More Sustainable Supply Chain

Sustainable criteria for suppliers
Source: RCx Building Diagnostics
Construct a “Green Team”



Implement a “Green Team” headed by a green champion
Chief Sustainability Officer or Vice President of
Sustainability

Relatively new position

Helps transform organization by implementing and enforcing sustainability
policies

Assembles and leads the “Green Team”
“Green Team”

Individuals who understand the company’s daily practices

Ideally members from different departments

Maintains sustainable initiatives and educates employees

Beneficial for members to gain accreditations
Implement Environmental
Standards

ISO 14001





Framework for a strategic approach for environmental policy, plans and
actions
General requirement for an environmental management system
Intention is not to specify levels of environmental performance
Promote effective and efficient environmental management in
organizations
ISO 50001



Framework for industrial plants
Could influence up to 60% of the world’s energy use
Objectives:





Help organizations better use energy
Create transparency
Promote energy management best practices
Energy efficiency throughout the supply chain
New Energy efficient technologies
Source: "Home." Certification. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Track & Report

Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)

Most widely accepted Sustainability
Reporting Framework in the world

Allows stakeholders to compare sustainability
related data

Mission: Disclosure of environmental, social,
economic performance

Guidelines:


G3.1
New G4

Useful tool for management decisions, reducing
costs, brand reputation, market differentiation

Benchmarking & corporate governance tool
Source: "GRI Certified Training Partners." CTP. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Track & Report

Key Performance Indicators



Indicators focus on sustainability data that is most material to most
stakeholders
Enable corporate management, investors, and other stakeholders to
encourage improvements of the organizations sustainability performance
Six Step Method






Assemble a broad universe of sustainability risks or opportunities
Select an industry classification system
Establish a definition of materiality to address non-financial issues
Apply the materiality test to the sustainability issues that are applicable
Rank the materiality of these issues each industry and establish a threshold
that identifies issues that are key
Create a tailored set of key performance indicators for the most material
issues for each sector
Source: Lydenberg, Steven D., Jean Rogers, and David Wood. From Transparency to Performance: Industry-based
Sustainability Reporting on Key Issues. Cambridge, MA: Hauser Center for Nonprofit Organizations, 2010. Web.
Track & Report


Maturity Model

Allows an organization to have methods and processes

Assessed according to management best practice, against clear set
external benchmarks
Benefits

Precise recommendations on how to improve

Ability for organizations to compare their Maturity Level with other
organizations, or other parts of their organization

Improvement on self assessments

Independently held set of benchmarks
Source: "What Is a Maturity Model, and Why Use One?" What Is a Maturity Model, and Why Use One? N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Track & Report
Source: "What Is a Maturity Model, and Why Use One?" What Is a Maturity Model, and Why Use One? N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Track & Report

Sustainability Scorecard

Tracks improvement on key partner related sustainability measures in the
supply chain

Partners are requested to report sustainability results related to the product
or service
Source: "P&GSuppliers." Sustainability Scorecard. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 May 2015.
Involve Employees

Education & Training



Steps to Train Employees on New Sustainability Initiatives

Explain and Show Importance

Use easily understood demonstrations and examples

Link new teachings to knowledge employees already have

Provide learning exercises to gain feedback

Provide job aids (roadmap, list of goals, or illustrations)

Embed training within a meeting, work session, briefing

Base training and communication plan on stakeholder needs
Incentives

Incentives increase responsible behavior

Financial or recognition-based rewards are effective
Individual Contribution

Set aside time for employees to contribute to the community
Develop an Environmental
Management/Sustainability Plan

Develop a simple and effective sustainability plan:

Step 1: Write a vision or mission statement

Step 2: Research other organizations sustainability plans & projects

Step 3: Identify areas of impact (environmental & social)

Step 4: Outline specific goals and targets

Step 5: Determine implementation of the goals

Step 6: Determine timelines for each goal

Step 7: Decide metrics to measure goals

Step 8: Create a reporting plan
Source: GoGreenPlus.org
Sustainability Plan:
Contributions to the TBL



Economic

Increases cost effectiveness

Creates a business-wide culture of economic efficiency
Environmental

Increased transparency and standards

Assessment of progress toward reaching goals

Goals are set and obtained
Social

Empowerment and individual impact provided to employees

Environmentally friendly companies are attractive to stakeholders

Boost in employee morale, retention, and job satisfaction
Join Industry Partnership and
Stewardship Programs

Available Certifications:









Household products & consumer goods: GreenSeal
Agriculture, manufacturing, and electricity: Scientific Certification
Systems (SCS)
Technology: EPEAT
Energy efficient products: ENERGY STAR
Organic food: USDA Organic
Renewable energy: Green-e
Wood products: SCS and Smartwood (Criteria set by Forestry
Stewardship Council (FSC)
Green buildings: LEED
EPA Partnerships
Partnership & Stewardship Programs:
Contributions to the TBL

Economic


Add economic value to products, services, and buildings
Environmental

Support outside sources that:



Enhance environmentally friendly practices
Advance sustainability practices that positively impact the environment
Social

Customers and investors believe in certification and use them to make
informed buying and investment decisions
Comply with Environmental
Regulations

Laws and Regulations
U.S. Laws &
Regulations:
Clean Air Act
(CAA)
Clean Water Act
(CWA)
Pollution Prevention
Act (PPA)
Energy Policy Act
Primary Function
Regulates Air
Emissions
Regulates Discharges of
Pollutants into the Waters
Reducing the Amount of
Pollution
Addresses Energy
Production
P.A. Laws &
Regulations:
Clean Streams
Act
Air Pollution Control
Act (APCA)
Conservation
District Law
Safe Packaging Act
Primary Function
Improve the
Quality of the
Water Streams
Reduction & Prevention of
Air Pollution
Conservation of Natural
Resources
Regulates Toxic
Materials Used in
Packaging

Permits

Clean Air Act, Endangered Species, Wetlands, & Resource
Sources: epa.gov, sba.gov, padep.gov
Comply with Regulations:
Contributions to the TBL

Economic


Environmental


Incentives available for being an environmental leader
Protects health and safety of employees and the community
Social

Positive publicity and marketing

Attracts stakeholders support

High-level employee morale and retention
HOW TO GREEN YOUR BUSINESS
OPERATIONS
Thank You
for
Attending!!
Citations