Author: Guy J. (Jeff) Hall, LEED AP | www.sustainva.com
A practical and inexpensive approach to launching a Business Sustainability Program is not as difficult as one may believe. For optimal efficiency a structured approach should be taken to implement the most cost effective conservation measures in a business. However, the following basic recommendations may be implemented as a start to save money in any business operation.
Become More Energy Efficient
By using less energy you reduce the demand on power plants, which helps the environment while saving up to 50% on your energy bills.
- Contact your local utility (or third party) to arrange for a free (or inexpensive) energy audit. A representative will examine your bill to insure you are on the correct rate schedule.
- Turn off lights and unplug electronics after hours — computers and other electronics use energy while they’re plugged in, even when they’re switched off. (Use power strip and you’ll only have to through one switch at the end of the day.)
- Set computers to sleep and hibernate when inactive, and restrict the use of screen savers. Screen savers can use over $50 of electricity in a year/computer. Look for power management or energy saving features in your computer software.
(Coordinate this energy program with your IT department). - Use Energy Star office equipment — most major brands provide Energy Star labeled models
About the author: Guy J. (Jeff) Hall, LEED AP, is the owner of Sustainable Building Solutions a professional consulting firm located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Jeff Hall can be reached at 757-287-2876, e-mail jhall@sustainva.com or by visiting www.sustainva.com.