Greening Your Business 101

Greening Your Business 101
Sustainability “Green” Health and Safety Greening Your Business 101 Turning your Business into a High Performance Green Machine DIOSH Day 2013 Don Howerter, LEED AP O&M Ruyle Mechanical Services, Inc Ginger Johnson, LEED GA TRICON / Simply Ag Services

50 Minutes to Kick Start Your Next Green Step
Ready to Go! 50 Minutes to Kick Start Your Next Green Step Defining “Green” Why it Matters Navigating Green Your Action Plan Opportunities and Strategies Incentives Getting Buy-In More Resources Just Scratching the Surface Today

What Does Green Mean to You?
DIOSH “Green” Participants What Does Green Mean to You?

Green ► Sustainability
Defining Green Green ► Sustainability Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, Fuel-Efficient Vehicles, Local Food, Reusing, Improved Air Quality, Low Water Usage, Sustainable Development, Safe Buildings, Social Equity, Reducing Waste, Local/Recycled Materials, Efficient Appliances, Preserving Natural Resources, Walking, Comfort, Fewer Employee Sick Days, Daylight, Insulation, No or Few Toxins, CFL’s and LED’s, Recycling, Saving Money, More Productivity, Helping the Planet, Slowing Global Warming, Being Responsible to Future Generations . . . It’s “indefinable” From Armory Lovins, Rocky Mountain Institute

Just Say No to Green Washing
Defining Green Just Say No to Green Washing Sustainability “Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” From the Brundtland Report1 It’s “improving the quality of life for all within the capacity of nature” From Paul Hawken, renowned author, speaker, and environmentalist 1 World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED). Our common future. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1987 p. 43.

PLANET SUSTAINABILITY PROFIT PEOPLE
ENVIRONMENTAL Natural Resource Use Env. Management Pollution Prevention (air, water, land, waste) ECONOMIC Profit Cost Savings Economic Growth R & D SOCIAL Standard of Living Education Community Equal Opportunity The Triple Bottom Line PLANET “Bearable” Justice Stewardship “Viable” Energy Efficiency Incentives SUSTAINABILITY PROFIT PEOPLE “Equitable” Ethics / Rights Fair Trade Adapted from University of Michigan 2002 and others

What is a Green or Sustainable Business?
Defining Green What is a Green or Sustainable Business? Better People Better Performance Better Products Better Environment Better Business

Defining Green Delta Institute: “Sustainability planning and related services are tools for businesses, state and local governments, and communities to reduce negative environmental impacts and improve efficiency in their operations, programs, and products. A sustainability program addresses energy, water, building and construction, pollution prevention, waste management, air quality, transportation, economic development, local food policy, open space and conservation – setting measurable goals for improvement in each area. Sustainability ultimately saves money, conserves resources and ensures that a business or community is “meeting its present needs without compromising those of future generations.” 1 1 Delta Institute, Sustainability & Certification, (2013).

This Might Be a Little Extreme . . .
Why it Matters BIG Picture Attitudes have Changed Part of Something Bigger Part of the Solution Responsibility to Care for our Planet – It’s Where We Live, Work and Play! Climate Change Resource Depletion Air / Water Pollution Wildlife Impact Green Jobs This Might Be a Little Extreme . . .

Why it Matters The American Dream We spend on average 90% of our time INDOORS, including time at WORK, sharing our space, air, light, germs, equipment, chemicals, tools, dust and other stuff with fellow humans. At work, we want 72 degrees, shorter commutes, more sunshine, clean water, to lose a few pounds, less stress, better relationships, fewer illnesses, fresh air, safe surroundings, more moolah, green views, happiness . . .

Hoax or not . . . Green is good for YOU and BUSINESS and PLANET!

For Business, Sustainability Can:
Why it Matters For Business, Sustainability Can: Boost the Bottom Line Generate Positive Image Attract Tenants, Workers, Customers Beautify Building & Area Spark Collaboration Foster Happiness Help the Planet Enhance Comfort Ensure Safety Improve Health Increase Productivity Reduce Waste Reduce Pollution, Green House Gas Emissions Conserve Energy, Water, Natural Resources Lower Operating Costs Increase Asset Value Reduce Risk Get Incentives, Rebates It Matters to our Neighbors

Role of the Safety and Health Professional in Sustainability
Why it Matters Perhaps Present at DIOSH Day about your success! Role of the Safety and Health Professional in Sustainability You Have Passion and Expertise! Valuable to Planning and Implementation Process Understand Needs of Employees AND Need for Cost Efficiency Opportunity to Improve Safety and Health for Employees and Others Contribute to: Comfort management Proper illumination in and out Clean water supply Stormwater management Materials and supplies HAZMAT regulations, handling IEQ standards, monitoring, contaminants, etc. Healthy environments Pollution control Ongoing monitoring and maintenance of measures

Navigating Ratings, Certifications, Standards, Codes, Guidelines
Navigating Green Navigating Ratings, Certifications, Standards, Codes, Guidelines Tips to Navigating: Don’t be Afraid to Ask! Look for State, Local and Federal Government Recommendations Look for Incentive & Code Requirements Check Local and State Training Entities Leverage Environmental Organizations Read Reviews Ask for Credentials No Shortage of Models! Name, Interests, Politics Can be Difficult and Time-Consuming for Consumers to Find, Learn, Implement Still Sorting out Models, but Emerging Leaders Narrow Your Focus? Need a Plaque? Go Beyond Code? For Buildings, Products, Localities, Businesses, Services, and Professionals . . . From Non-Profits, Government Agencies, For-Profits, Industry Associations, Utilities . . . Focusing on Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Transportation, New, Existing, Energy Efficiency, Electronics, Land, Water, Holistic Philosophy, Natural Resources, Renewables, Recycling, Codes, Climate, Design . . .

Yikes - Over 100 rating systems out there!
Navigating Green Yikes - Over 100 rating systems out there! Rating Systems LEED® Rating System by U.S. Green Building Council ( ENERGY STAR® Buildings and Products by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Dept of Energy ( Green Globes™ by Green Building Initiative™ ( Living Building Challenge by International Living Future Institute™ ( BPI Rating System by Building Performance Institute, Inc. ( BOMA 360 Performance Program® by BOMA International (

Navigating Green Rating Systems GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified® program for low-emitting/low-VOC products ( Forest Stewardship Council™ certifies products from responsibly managed forests ( Green Seal® certifies products, services, companies ( ACEEE’s Green Book® green car ratings ( Pharos Project evaluates, certifies materials (

Codes, Standards, Guidelines
Navigating Green Codes, Standards, Guidelines International Energy Efficiency Code ® and International Green Construction Code, plus guides by International Code Council® ( ASHRAE standards for indoor environments, refrigeration plus guides ( Building Energy Codes Program, U.S. Dept. of Energy, codes and standards, assistance to states ( ICC 700 National Green Building Standard™ by NAHB ( and ICC ( IL DECO Bureau of Energy & Recycling ( ANSI ( and ISO (

Take a Step Action! Company, Department, You, Starting Small OK
Navigating to Planning Take a Step Company, Department, You, Starting Small OK No Guilt – not all at same stage Choose Focus or Priorities Early Don’t have to Reinvent Wheel Do it Together Make it Fun Go ahead, use your cell phone! Check out these Apps: iRecycle, Locavore, Good Guide, Econo, Climate Eyes, OneSmallAct, Go Green, 123 Zero Build, JouleX Modbile, Sustainable Facilities Mobile Action!

YOUR ACTION PLAN Action Plan Many Examples Available – Based on Strategic Business Planning Models Use Continuous Improvement Cycle Similar to Your Plans for Safety and Health Common Strategic Areas across Models and Rating Systems [1] 1 United Nations, UN Global Compact Management Model, (Published 2010, Accessed 2013).

#1 Make a Commitment YOUR ACTION PLAN
Usually Works Best “Top Down” (more on buy-in later) Company, Department, Branch, Neighborhood, You? Establish “Green Team” or “Sustainability Committee” Solicit volunteers, but include stakeholders like safety/health manager, building operator, owner, employee(s) who spend most of day on site, variety of ages/experience, maybe a client Identify primary contact person and location of information Establish regular meeting time Create Preliminary Action Steps, Timeline Be Flexible, Expect Surprises, Challenges Be Prepared to Narrow Focus to Fit Time and Resources Communicate your Commitment Foster Collaboration, Innovation Create a Buzz! Have Fun!

Good News . . . It Matters to CEOs

#2 Know What You Have How can you fix what you don’t know is broken?
YOUR ACTION PLAN #2 Know What You Have How can you fix what you don’t know is broken? CRITICAL to Plan! Survey Employees, Owners, Managers, Clients, for Example: What about your work area makes you uncomfortable? What is the biggest challenge on a hot day to cool the building? Can you easily access recycling bins? Ask for Ideas, Desires, Interests List Past Complaints, Known Problems Conduct Walk-Thru with OPEN EYES!

#2 Know What You Have YOUR ACTION PLAN
Gather Information and Statistics Utility Usage Waste Stream Employees Mechanical Systems Water, Stormwater Resources for Data Collection ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager Data Collection Worksheet ( Local/Regional Utility and Waste Companies IL DCEO Bureau of Energy and Recycling ( US Energy Information Administration, Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey ( AND Building Benchmarking ( Consumables and Cleaning Supplies Other Furnishings, Equipment Insurance, Other Expenses Manufacturing Processes Pests, Mold, Condensation, Ewww Stuff I’m going to get you!

#2 Know What You Have Bring in the Professionals
YOUR ACTION PLAN #2 Know What You Have Bring in the Professionals Energy Audit Waste Audit IAQ Testing Water Testing Mechanical System Assessment Retro-Commissioning Compile into Benchmark Reference Note Emerging Priorities Update Statistics, Conduct Follow-Up Surveys

That Pill is Just a Mirage. You are Still Sleepy.
YOUR ACTION PLAN #3 Know Your Options How much Engagement and Support from Employees, Owners? Initial Investment Availability Look at Case Studies, Tour Other Offices / Projects Attend Introductory Seminars Leverage Professional Results Consider Everything! Potential Savings Over Life of Building Available Incentives Employee Productivity and Health Savings Waste Stream Savings Product Cost Savings Marketing – Business Seen as Part of the Solution That Pill is Just a Mirage. You are Still Sleepy.

#4 Create the Plan Priorities and Scope SMART Goals
YOUR ACTION PLAN #4 Create the Plan Priorities and Scope SMART Goals Timeline and Milestones Who is Doing What, When and How? IMPORTANT: Communicate the Plan and Engage Everyone Include Continuous Improvement Process Use professionals, rating systems, case studies, to identify STRATEGIES to achieve goals. . .

Opportunities and Strategies
Sustainable Sites Water Efficiency Energy and Atmosphere Innovation and Regional Priorities Materials and Resources Indoor Environmental Quality Equity, Beauty, Education and Awareness Rating Systems and Guidelines for Various Types: Existing Buildings, New Construction, Schools, Homes, Neighborhoods, Manufacturing . . . Combined From LEED®, Living Building Challenge™, and Others

Sustainable Sites Opportunities
Keep Water on the Site! Sustainable Sites Opportunities Sustainable Sites Create/maintain safe building exterior and property that preserves surrounding ecosystem Reduce water consumption and runoff Reduce heat-island effect Reduce dependency on single- occupancy autos Encourage outdoor human activity Reduce chemicals, control erosion, use native plants in landscaping Reduce light pollution while preserving safety and security Create areas for wildlife habitat Novus International Headquarters Campus, St. Louis, MO. Learn more about this project and others at

Image Source: Heat Island Group, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Heat Island Effect According to the EPA/ENERGY STAR, “The term "heat island" describes built up areas that are hotter than nearby rural areas. The annual mean air temperature of a city with 1 million people or more can be 1.8–5.4°F (1–3°C) warmer than its surroundings. In the evening, the difference can be as high as 22°F (12°C). Heat islands can affect communities by increasing summertime peak energy demand, air conditioning costs, air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, heat-related illness and mortality, and water quality.”

Reduce Heat Island Effect
Sustainable Sites Strategies Green Roof: Reduce Heat Island Effect Sustainable Sites Eliminate and/or substitute harmful chemicals in paints, sealants, fertilizers, pesticides, etc. Manage Stormwater: install bioswales, use native landscaping, erosion control, reduce runoff Capture water (rainwater, gutters) for irrigation; reuse grey water Upgrade exterior illumination to limit nighttime pollution, disruption of wildlife, maintain safety and security Implement car-pooling programs Upgrade parking, walkways to porous surfaces; reduce use of traditional asphalt and concrete Install green roof Xeriscaping landscaping that reduces or eliminates need for irrigation

The Peoria Riverfront Museum, Peoria, Illinois, opened in 2012
The Peoria Riverfront Museum, Peoria, Illinois, opened in It employed several sustainable site strategies and ultimately achieved LEED Gold certification. “Last week, Chicago officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on “the greenest street in America,” a two-mile stretch of Cermak Road and Blue Island Avenue in the city’s Pilsen neighborhood. In addition to new pedestrian and bicycle features, the innovative new street surface will filter stormwater, helping to prevent the city’s combined sewers from overflowing. Most impressive of all, the cement used to pave the street cleans the surface of the roadway and removes pollution from the air.” “The new roadway uses photocatalytic cement, an innovative new paving surface that contains nano particles of titanium dioxide, enabling it to literally “eat” smog and remove nitrogen oxide gases from the surrounding air. Additionally, the sidewalks are paved with 30 percent recycled content, and more than 60 percent of all construction waste was recycled.” Photo and Quote from Inhabit ( By Mark Boyer

Nice Drug- and Water-Dependent Green Rug, eh?
Water Efficiency Opportunities Water Efficiency Reduce indoor water consumption Reduce outdoor/irrigation water consumption, especially of potable water Capture and reuse “grey” water when possible Reduce “black” waste water; reduce burden on building, site, treatment, and natural systems Lower water bills Are You Thirsty for More? Q: How much water is saved per flush with a high-efficiency toilet? A: 2.2 to 5.7 gal Q: Between 1950 and 2000, the US population grew by 89%; how much has our water use grown in the same period? A: 200%

Water Efficiency Strategies
Install low-flow toilets, showers, appliances Manage cooling towers to reduce water use; also relates to chemical and bacterial contamination and control issues Capture rainwater and use for irrigation; reuse grey water in toilets Monitor water usage regularly; upgrade meters Occupant Behavior Provide training to occupants on ways to reduce water consumption and why it matters Use leftover (from drinking) water for plants instead of pouring down drain Turn off faucets while not in use Report and fix leaking faucets, toilets immediately

Energy Use in Commercial Buildings
Reduce energy consumption (lighting, equipment, systems, phantom load, etc.) Energy and Atmosphere Opportunities Energy and Atmosphere Increase on-site renewable energy generation Increase demand for off-site renewable energy generation Reduce harmful “green house” gas emmissions Manage refrigerants Develop HVAC maintenance program to monitor and optimize energy use; add control system Ensure occupant comfort (temperature) Provide proper ventilation and fresh air for occupants; reduce/eliminate poor air quality Energy Use in Commercial Buildings U.S. Buildings Use: 36 percent of total energy use and 65 percent of electricity consumption 30 percent of greenhouse gas emissions 30 percent of raw materials use 30 percent of waste output (136 million tons annually) 12 percent of potable water consumption Source: U.S. Green Building Council Source: US DOE, 2010 Buildings Energy Data Book, Table 3.1.5

Energy and Atmosphere Opportunities
Reduce energy consumption (lighting, equipment, systems, phantom load, etc.) Increase on-site renewable energy generation Increase demand for off-site renewable energy generation Reduce harmful “green house” gas emmissions Manage refrigerants Develop HVAC maintenance program to monitor and optimize energy use; add control system Ensure occupant comfort (temperature) Provide proper ventilation and fresh air for occupants; reduce/eliminate poor air quality

Schools Need Tight Envelopes, too – Ask Don!
Energy and Atmosphere Strategies Schools Need Tight Envelopes, too – Ask Don! Energy and Atmosphere Envelope Air sealing to reduce leakage in building envelope Roof replacement, attic repairs Insulation – roof, walls, choose quality based on science Upgrade and/or air seal windows and doors, can lights

Energy and Atmosphere Strategies Lighting
Upgrade to efficient indoor lighting and controls Provide zone lighting and task lighting ; add motion sensors Increase daylighting; add windows; reconfigure offices for more daylight Upgrade to efficient outdoor lighting; choose long life products; control for security and time Explore local alternative electricity suppliers Before and after LED lighting upgrade

∆ T (Delta T) = temp 1 - temp 2 1 therm = 100,000 BTU
1 watt = 1 ampere (amp) under a pressure of 1 volt Foot-Candle = how much light a candle generates 1 foot away Lumen = amount of brightness coming from a light source 1 horsepower = power needed to lift 550 lbs 1 foot in 1 second Ton of cooling = amount of cooling that would be provided by melting a ton of ice Phantom load = electricity consumed by a device when it is turned off or in standby mode

Energy and Atmosphere Strategies
Mechanical Systems (HVAC, Boilers, Hot Water) Retro-Commission – Make sure systems are working like they are intended to work! Set back temperatures for low occupancy times and locations Provide occupant-based controls (window, zoned thermostat) Use or update to programmable or automated control systems Upgrade to high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment (and/or boilers), if needed; “right-size” equipment to building and occupants Upgrade chillers, if needed; right-size

Energy and Atmosphere Strategies Mechanical Systems
Don has more stories: Meat Processing Plant 4-year College School Boiler Mechanical Systems Use electric motor controls Upgrade hot water equipment, if needed; right-size Install/upgrade proper ventilation system; include heat recovery IMPORTANT - Train building operators! Building automation software Source: Ruyle Mechanical

Powering CAT Visitor Center and Museum
Energy and Atmosphere Strategies Energy and Atmosphere Powering CAT Visitor Center and Museum Renewables Install on-site renewable energy sources, like wind turbines and photovoltaic systems Install solar hot water system Purchase renewable energy credits (RECs), available online Purchase products produced with renewable energy and recycled content CAT, Peoria – PJ Star Eureka, IL – PJ Star London, England

Energy and Atmosphere Strategies Energy and Atmosphere Our Favorite:
Work from Home! Occupant Behavior Host training for employees on how to reduce energy consumption and why it matters Provide occupant-controlled temperature zones and windows Provide occupant-controlled task lighting Turn off lights when not needed Unplug unused electronics Turn off computers while away/overnight Use stairs vs. elevators and automatic doors Solar Gain: The increase in temperature in a space, object or structure resulting from solar radiation

Net Zero Energy Buildings
A “Net Zero” building has a net annual energy consumption of zero, measured by cost, energy, and/or carbon emissions. It may use off-site, conventional energy at times when it can’t produce enough on-site (off-the-grid) energy. It returns to the grid at least as much energy as it borrowed during a year. Designers are already working on “Energy Plus” buildings that produce a surplus of energy (and can return it to the grid). University of Illinois is constructing a new home for the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering . The project is anticipated to achieve LEED Platinum certification and officials are striving for a net zero energy building. For more information, visit

Materials and Resources
Opportunities Materials and Resources Reduce waste from everyday operations, maintenance, and manufacturing processes Reduce waste from construction/deconstruction Divert waste from landfills Reduce energy used to produce products Establish recycling program Choose local food sources Manage waste stream Choose non-toxic materials Reduce disposal, supply costs and overall cost to do business

REDUCE REUSE RECYCLE Materials and Resources Strategies Materials and Resources Develop waste stream management plan Train building operators and employees Provide convenient access to recycling instructions and bins; consider co-mingled recycling Use “eco-friendly” cleaning procedures and products Compost food scraps Develop policy to purchase only (when possible) materials, foods, cleaning supplies that are: locally sourced, made with recycled content, made from rapidly renewable sources, and contain low or no VOCs or toxins Source: RED LIST Living Building Challenge

Materials and Resources Recycling
Recycling Works: A Toolkit for Reducing Waste in the Workplace ( Illinois Recycling Association ( County/City Recycling Programs

Occupant Behavior Use recycling bins at desk or near work Reduce printing volume; duplex Use intranet, , electronic media to distribute news, presentations, etc. Reuse backside of paper for “scratch” Purchase supplies in bulk and according to policy (local, renewable content, low VOCs, etc) Evaluate processes to eliminate waste (by department, location, manufactured product, etc.) Choose reusable water bottles, coffee mugs, plates, utensils, office supplies Put food scraps in compost bin Strategies Materials and Resources

Indoor Environmental Quality
Opportunities Indoor Environmental Quality Prevent Legionnaire’s Disease. ASHRAE Legionella Standard188 in 3rd draft right now Improve occupant health and safety Provide occupants with fresh, clean air Reduce or eliminate use of chemical pollutants, VOCs, toxins No stinky stuff! – human, VOC, biological Reduce or eliminate air-borne particulates, contaminants, disease Prevent moisture, humidity, condensation issues Reduce incidence of pests, mold, etc. Ensure occupants’ thermal comfort Increase occupant access to daylight and views Develop mechanical system monitoring program Improve productivity (and alertness) Give clients “eco-friendly” products and services Reduce costs (insurance, absenteeism, mechanical)

Strategies Indoor Environmental Quality Mechanical Systems Develop/Maintain System Management Preventative maintenance – Continuous Monitoring! Replacement, upgrades Upgrade for automation and control systems IECC 2010 as of January 1, 2013 Proper temperature control; occupant controls Provide Proper Ventilation Control Air Flow, Pressures, Humidity, CO2 Levels Maintain / Upgrade Filtration Air Seal Envelope to Improve Mechanical Performance and Keep Out Critters, Allergens, etc. EPA’s IAQ Building, Education and Assessment Software Model (I-BEAM)

Air Quality Air Changes Per Hour = Total Volume of air in a building that is turned over in one hour Develop Indoor Air Quality Management Plan Flush Out and/or Air Testing Limits of toxicology Most studies done on animals Occupational exposure Acute exposure Little known about chemical “soups” Radon mitigation Resources: Toxicology for Non-Toxicologist by Mark Stelljes Healthy Building Network ( Pharos Project (

Strategies Indoor Environmental Quality Cleaning and Purchasing Develop and use “green” cleaning procedures and products Establish purchasing policy that restricts products with known contaminants, VOCs, toxins – applies to office supplies, equipment, product parts, furnishings, anything that comes in the door! Living Building Challenge RED LIST Occupant Behavior Reduce use of perfumes and lotions that could trigger allergies Purchase “greener” office and cleaning supplies according to policy Stay home when acutely ill; cover mouth and nose Report comfort issues immediately

Innovation in Design or Operation and Regional Priorities
Innovation / Priorities Opportunities and Strategies Innovation in Design or Operation and Regional Priorities UT Dallas won the Innovation in Green Building Award for its LEED platinum Student Services building. Source: Spark collaboration among employees to develop innovative solutions Address regional issues and priorities, like preserving Illinois River Research new technologies; attend training; network with businesses on regional concerns Share innovative solutions with others Biomimicry Imitating nature to create new human products and solutions

Beauty, Equity, Education and Awareness
Opportunities and Strategies Beauty, Equity, Education and Awareness Add native landscaping, green areas, rain gardens (bioswales), and “eco” art to beautify the site and surrounding area Beautify the work atmosphere with added daylight, task lighting, eco-friendly products and art Provide access to all employees to sustainability initiatives and programs; share knowledge, experiences with others Spark collaboration to develop innovative solutions Develop education and awareness programs for employees, clients, community, schools

#4 Implement #5 Measure and Monitor
YOUR ACTION PLAN #4 Implement Make sure everyone understands the plan before starting Incentives for participation, reaching goals Impact Area Current Baseline Objective Strategies Dept or Team Project Start / End Dates Results Future #5 Measure and Monitor Remember: Continuous Improvement Cycle! Foster and find new opportunities, ideas, innovations Continue research; watch for best practices Document, document, document! Compare to benchmarks

#5 Communicate Results Tell everyone! Post throughout business
YOUR ACTION PLAN #5 Communicate Results Whoohoo! We did it! Tell everyone! Post throughout business Include in Annual Report to investors, public Press Releases, news coverage Incorporate into marketing materials Add to packaging but be wary of “green washing” and over-promising Present at conferences; share case study Celebrate!

Incentives and Rebates
Check for Local Financing Programs Incentives and Rebates Check Private Sources, too

Sustainable Buy-In Getting Buy-In Good news: More people on board, including building operators and CEOs; and there are many resources to help Engage the owner/manager from the start Start small or choose low-hanging fruits that give big bang for buck, demonstrate success Building the Case: What are the things that create value to business? Align those things with sustainability measures Prove potential value; estimate, if needed, but use your research and data Leverage the “neighbor’s” experience; use case studies, published articles, etc. Reduce risk for owner/manager Present incentive and rebate options plus costs over life of building/project Tell a good story! Do Your Research and Share it! USGBC and GreenBiz have “Business Case” papers

Address Hurdles, Barriers, Challenges
Sustainable Buy-In Address Hurdles, Barriers, Challenges Complexity of implementing measures company-wide and across business activities Still some uncertainty of ROI Lack of funding is misconception How can you afford NOT to implement sustainability measures? Costs should be applied to lifecycle of building or item, not just immediate payback. Other benefits insurance, health, productivity Lack of education and awareness still out there Lack of time and human resources Lack of skills to address sustainability issues

More Resources Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Bureau of Energy and Recycling ( US Green Building Council – Illinois Chapter ( Illinois Green Economy Network ( Smart Energy Design Assistance Center ( ActOnEnergy® ( Global Warming Solutions Group of Central IL ( Illinois Environmental Protection Agency ( Illinois Recycling Association ( American Institute of Architects, Central IL Chapter ( Illinois Solar Energy Association ( Illinois Institute of Rural Affairs – Illinois Wind ( Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (

More Resources Catch a “Green” Flick Green Mechanical Association ( EPA Water Sense ( Healthy Building Network ( Green For All ( U.S. DOE EnergyPlus Simulation Software ( Green Biz ( Advocacy organization for sustainability leadership ( Bob Willard author, speaker ( Many, many more!

Pssst . . . Earth Day is April 22, 2013
Thank You! Take that Step!

Greening Your Business 101

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