A Business Case For Being Green

A Business Case for Being Green
Presented by: Julie A. Baylor, CHA

A green business is still first and foremost a business – and the main purpose of a business is to make a profit.
Therefore, the decision to become a green business must jump the first hurdle of proving that it can be profitable.
People…
Planet…
Profit…
Profit is still the bottom line of the Triple Bottom Line

That being said, it is an unfortunate truth that every environmental problem that exists on our planet today has a direct connection to undisciplined, reckless and short-sighted business activities.
Business in general has a responsibility to address the problems it has caused.

Luckily, the green business model provides the opportunity to “do the right thing” and make green while being green.

True, some of the bigger initiatives involve an investment in upgrading to more efficient operating equipment.
However, the rebates and incentives often defray these costs to a manageable figure, and the efficiency improvements pay for themselves completely over a relatively short period of time.

Yet, even if a business cannot make the larger equipment or building investments, it can still make a commitment to improve its daily operations to reduce environmental impacts, and realize measurable benefits.

Following are some of the benefits of being a green business.

COST SAVINGS
The Obvious – less use means less cost. Adopting standard green practices will reduce your costs for:
Electricity, Gas, Water, Waste Disposal
Insurance companies often provide premium reductions for meeting environmental standards.
Green initiatives teach employees to adapt a new mindset, focusing on discovering new efficiencies, waste reductions and savings opportunities.

Much of the value is intangible, but invaluable.
Green initiatives increase employee loyalty and pride, as well as reduce turnover.
Improved overall employee satisfaction results in improved productivity.
EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND MORALE

Reduction of hazardous substances results in reduced risk of on-the-job injuries.
Improved employee health and wellness results in improved attendance and fewer lost work days.
Green businesses attract better quality job candidates, with values that are aligned with the business philosophy.
EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND MORALE

Environmental reporting provides early detection of malfunctioning or failing equipment, and provides insight into building performance in order to better plan for capital projects.
Establishing a Green Team makes all departments accountable for green practices, and promotes unity and cohesion.
ACCOUNTABILITY AND ANALYSIS

Studies and surveys reveal a growing trend among consumers to choose greener products and services. Even among consumers who do not specifically seek out green businesses, a green certification can often be the deciding factor between two options.
Sharing green practices with customers and encouraging their participation promotes customer engagement and fosters loyalty.
Community reputation is enhanced when a business strives to protect the environment, conserve natural resources, and provide a safe and healthy workplace for its residents.
CUSTOMER & COMMUNITY LOYALTY

Attract a new client base of environmentally conscious customers.
Meet the environmental standards required of most government entities and large corporations.
Opportunity for inclusion with green business directories and websites, many of which provide free listings when green initiatives are met.
Increased public relations opportunities – being green gives everyone something to talk about.
MARKETPLACE ADVANTAGE

Green businesses have a greater ability to raise outside capital for projects, as most banks are more willing to invest in a green certified business/building.
Financial analysts tend to upgrade the investment quality of a business based on perceived superior environmental performance.
INVESTMENT VALUE

Voluntary and proactive compliance with proposed legislation positions the business to more easily adapt to policy changes.
Reduces the risk of fines and surprise inspections.
Helps the business comply with OSHA standards.
Reduces the business susceptibility to lawsuits.
PROACTIVE PREPARATION FOR FUTURE LEGISLATION

Being Green moves your business to the next level.
Bypasses the stagnating or “decline” stage of the typical business cycle and repositions the business back into the “expansion” or “renewal” stage.
POSITIONS THE BUSINESS FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS

Businesses that do the right things tend to make more money.
Businesses that do the wrong things tend to risk government fines, lawsuits, boycotts, and bad publicity.

Green Perceptions over Time
Yesterday, Green was a Cult.
Today, Green is a Movement.
Tomorrow, Green will be a Mandate.
Is there a better time than now?

“All is connected… no one thing can change by itself.”
~Paul Hawken, Natural Capitalism
Join the Green Wave!

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A Business Case For Being Green

by Julie Baylor on Mar 05, 2010

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