In this inspiring TED talk, Alex Steffen explains why reducing humanity’s ecological footprint is extremely vital. It’s really worth watching!

Enjoy!

Sustainability is a subject we can’t ignore. It is important for businesses of all sizes to understand the factors that drive sustainability today (new regulations, resource scarcity, social awareness etc), and to stop looking at sustainability as a threat, but as an opportunity to develop new products, services and markets.

In this short video, Peter Graf, EVP’s Chief Sustainability Officer explains why sustainability matters and why it is critical for both short and long term profitability.

Watch Video

During the past decade people have become more aware of the need to create greener homes. I’ve always tried to be part of the change, and I strongly (and maybe innocently) believe that little by little we can make the world a better place.

Even though I have implemented green strategies at home, I have to admit that sometimes I have forgotten my “green principles” when I’m at work. It’s hard to keep up with these principles when you can’t even find a recycling bin, but the truth is that office spaces can be brutal to the environment and we have to do something about it!

By the end of 2009 I was talking to one of my co-workers, and we decided to implement a Green Strategy throughout our office. By establishing simple rules, we have been able to change some bad habits, and now I am proud to say that everyone at Consensus International believes that building a “Greener” tomorrow is not a matter of choice; it is a responsibility.

Now that the New Year approaches we would like to invite you to be part of the change. With a few simple tips, we hope you understand how easy it is to make “Green” one of your strongest resolutions for 2011. These are just a few things that we have encouraged our staff to do, we hope they work for you too!

1. When possible, read documents on the computer instead of printing them out.
2. Turn off the lights every time you leave your office or a conference room.
3. Make sure all lights are turned off by the end of the day.
4. Turn down the air conditioning when you leave for the day.
5. Print documents on both sides and print on “draft” mode when possible.
6. Place recycling bins in high traffic areas and specify what can and cannot be recycled.
7. Share rides!
8. Encourage your staff to use ceramic mugs, glasses, real dishes and cutlery. Avoid disposable utensils.
9. Avoid foam and plastic cups.
10. Donate all those office supplies that have been forgotten in a drawer. Schools, hospitals and other institutions will be happy to have them!
11. Buy Energy Star rated light bulbs.
12. Buy a plant! It will help clean the air and will also make your day brighter!
13. When possible, use email rather than faxes.
14. Buy environmentally safe cleaning products.
15. At least you are running a backup, turn off your computer.