1. Conserve Energy

Energy use from buildings is responsible for nearly 40 percent of global warming pollution in the United States.

Efficiency options for offices

• Install an automated energy management system
• Install occupancy sensors to control lighting
• Switch to energy efficient lighting
• Activate power-saving settings on office equipment
• Install energy management software on PCs
• Purchase Energy Star® certified office equipment
• Tune-up or replace inefficient heating/cooling systems

Efficiency options for vehicle fleets

• Reduce miles driven
• Educate employees on efficient driving strategies
• Ensure regular maintenance and tune-ups
• Purchase the most efficient tires available
• Switch to more fuel-efficient vehicles

The most important step your company can take to reduce its climate impact is to save energy.

The cleanest, cheapest energy is the energy you never have to use!

Simple steps save a lot

Simple operational changes in many areas — from lighting to office equipment to corporate fleets — can substantially cut electricity and fuel use. Such changes often reduce costs as well as emissions.

Investments in efficiency also can improve systems performance and increase employee comfort and morale — all while reducing global warming pollution.

The good news is that many energy efficiency opportunities cost nothing, but can cut energy bills considerably. Other efficiency upgrades require up-front investments, but usually recoup costs quickly through energy savings.

Know your starting point: Conduct an inventory

Although you can start conserving energy immediately, many companies find it helpful to begin by conducting an emissions inventory.

Measuring your company’s current energy use and greenhouse gas emissions will lay the groundwork for identifying opportunities for improvement, setting goals and measuring progress.

Posted: 01-Jan-1900; Updated: 01-Jan-1900