The Vault Guide to Green Programs
I really enjoy reading about what’s happening at other companies with regard to their sustainability practices and programs. So, when I heard about Vault’s new digital-only book, the Vault Guide to Green Programs, I knew I had to check it out.
Why this predilection toward green initiatives at other businesses? Well, it’s no surprise that I find this subject tremendously intriguing. But, beyond that, I have to admit, my motives are actually quite self-serving. After all, I never know when I’m going to pick up an idea, a tip, or a strategy that we could incorporate into either an Aravo product or our company practice (or both).
Vault, itself, is committed to going green and the Vault Guide to Green Programs is only available online. The e-book details precisely the ways in which many prominent North American businesses are incorporating sustainability into their day-to-day practices, and you can either download the guide or simply view a variety of environmental initiative profiles at the Vault website.
I started poking around and learned that Continental Airlines is the first major U.S. air carrier to announce plans to perform a test flight in 2009 using sustainable biofuels. They offer a carbon offset program to their customers, and have achieved a 35% reduction in GHG emissions and fuel consumption per revenue passenger mile flown (thanks to more fuel efficient aircraft and equipment).
Over at the Random House, Inc. profile, I discovered that back in 2006, Random House was the first major publisher to adopt an environmental paper policy. According to the report, that’s a strategy with major implications because about 80% of Random House, Inc.’s carbon emissions comes from paper use. The company estimates that in 2007 alone, their environmental paper policy saved more than 300,000 trees.
What about Sprint Nextel Corporation? Since 2001, they’ve been a leader in wireless recycling, keeping more than 12 million wireless phones out of the waste stream. And the Burger King Corporation? They’re reducing their carbon footprint by using a new flexible batch broiler that cycles energy on and off.
I think you get the idea. Next time you have a few minutes, find your favorite company, and take a look. This site is filled with tons of fascinating information and ideas and is on my new list of “required reading.”
