So what makes a Business “Green”, anyway?

30. April 2009 by Dean of Clean.

So you’re looking for a business - whether it be a plumber, attorney, cleaning service or bookstore, and you see several that claim that they are “green”, or that they offer “green” services. What does that really mean? How do you make sure that you’re not being “greenwashed” by a company that is simply hopping on what they think is the next hot bandwagon?

“Green” is in, no doubt about it - and this is definitely a good thing! But you won’t be surprised to learn that there are different shades of green in business, as in our personal lives. First of all, green means different things to different people. It can range from “we recycle” to a deeper look at (and commitment to) sustainability by the business within their chosen field.

It’s true that large multinational companies like Wal-Mart are “Greening” their operations these days, and that is no small achievement. These corporations can make a huge difference for good; however, small local businesses seem far more likely to be genuinely green than behemoth companies…if your definition of green includes living wages and keeping dollars local. Here’s what I personally look for:

-Livable wages for employees…since no business is truly sustainable without this! Also, call me crazy, but it just seems like the right thing to do.

-Use of Green Power, such as wind or solar, recycling wherever available, energy-saving lights/appliances and other “no-brainer” initiatives that all of us can participate in. (Do you practice these at your house?)

-Local ownership, keeping dollars here in La Plata County (or wherever you live).

-Use of carbon offsets, alternative fuels and modernized, economical vehicles or equipment where applicable.

-Specialized “Green” initiatives (these will vary by industry or trade.) For instance, a plumber might use a pipe cement that has fewer or no harmful VOCs…a carpet installer might use the same reformulated type of adhesive to lay your recycled carpet, or your local coffee shop might use shade-grown organic coffee that doesn’t require clear-cutting and chemicals to make you an aromatic cup of morning wake-up.

So the next time a company claims to be “Green”, don’t be afraid to ask “Why?” and “How?” if they haven’t explained it. Click here to learn more about “Green” Cleaning in Durango, Hesperus and Bayfield…and have a great day!

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