Does Your Small Business Have a Power Style?

IBM saved $26.8 million in energy expenses in 2009 as a result of companywide conservation efforts that surpassed corporate targets.  How did they do it? Last year, 1,900 energy conservation projects at 270 IBM facilities around the world helped deliver savings in energy consumption that were equivalent to 5.4 percent of the company's total energy use.   Granted, your business may not be an IBM with worldwide facilities, but, at a minimum, your business occupies office space.  There are numerous opportunities for your small business to capitalize on company conservation efforts delivering benefits to both the bottom line and the environment.   In fact, more and more leading companies are becoming increasing aware of the cost savings and long-term benefits associated with implementing sustainable changes in their organization.  Managing and planning a company’s operations to reduce environmental impacts can result in reductions in resource consumption, emissions, and waste streams.    Small businesses looking for quick wins with a minimum of resource outlay can see generate results: 

• Install switch plate occupancy sensors in proper locations to automatically turn off lighting when no one is present, and back on when people return. 

• Turn off your monitor and other office equipment when not in use.

• Turn computer off at the end of the day.

• Turn lights off in conference room after meetings and remember to turn off the projector as well.

• Use more natural light when available and adjust lighting to your actual needs.

• Unplug infrequently used office equipment.  Many appliances continue to draw a small amount of power when they are switched off. These "phantom" loads occur in most appliances that use electricity, such as computers and kitchen appliances.

As part of a business sustainability plan, small efforts such as these executed consistently over time, can contribute to improved energy efficiency in your workplace.  More advanced eco actions include evaluating the following:  Click here to continue reading if your small business has a power style.   

Home to one third of the earth's trees, the Taiga is the largest land-based biosphere and encircles the globe. Its immense oxygen production literally changes the atmosphere and refreshes the planet. It is this continuous renewal that has shaped Taiga Company's vision to drive similar change in the business world. Taiga Company seeks to be the "oxygen for your business".

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