Eco from the go: save time and resources by starting your business green.

AuthorKennedy, Linda T.

Green's the thing, but more than a social trend or marketing angle, businesses are "going green" for increased revenue, reduced operating costs and higher productivity rates (due to healthier environments), in addition to community and environmental considerations. You can start your business green right out the gate or, if you're already up and running, follow a few simple conservation tips to make your business greener.

The first thing wannabe eco-friendly start-ups can do is build or move into a LEED certified building, according to the Salt Lake City Division of Sustainability. Also, the Utah chapter of the American Institute of Architects says renovating an old building for LEED certification is becoming a popular option. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.

In the U.S. alone, buildings account for 70 percent of electricity consumption, but LEED certified buildings conserve energy, among other resources, and aid new businesses with incentives such as lower operating costs and tax rebates. Information about LEED for new construction and renovations, benefits of green building and LEED resources can be found at www.usgbc.org. And to find a Utah LEED certified architect, contact AIA Utah at (801) 532.1727.

Once you've met your green goals, you can apply at www.slcgreen.com to be recognized as an e2 Business. The Salt Lake City Environmentally and Economically sustainable e2 business program provides benefits such as free advertising, earned media, reduced advertising costs in local publications, free consultations with Salt Lake City staff experts and use of the e2 brand.

RELATED ARTICLE: Green Tips You Can Put To Work

The Sierra Club (www.sierraclub.org), one of America's oldest environmental organizations, suggests several habit changes and small environmentally-friendly policies you can start at the office today:

* Artificial lighting accounts for 44 percent of the...

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