How “Green” is your energy profile?

Running a green, clean and lean operation was the theme of today’s U.P. Green Expo. Environmental experts at the event encouraged everyone to examine their energy profile.

No one was let off the hook. Everyone was encouraged to get involved and make a few small changes that would go a long way. Organizers believe that if everyone pitches in, the U.P. will have the ability to be less dependent on neighboring states and operate self–sufficiently.

“If a company can use their water more efficiently, their energy more efficiently, by simply reusing some of that water, you can save immeasurably on that water and all the energy that is associated with moving that water, treating that water. There are a lot of ways that waste can be re–purposed and used as source material for another company,” said Tom Murray, Senior Scientist, U.S.E.P.A.

According to the experts, even the low hanging fruit can improve profitability and environmental performance, leaving a clean and sustainable legacy for Michigan kids.

“My job is to make sure people don’t make the same mistakes others have made.  To give them the tools and resources that are available to them,” said Jeff Spencer, Michigan Green Community Program.

“Environmentalism has changed over the last 20 years.  It is not something that is going to cost the company more money to get involved in. It is actually gotten to the point where if you are not using some of the environmental principals around, you are probably spending more money than your competitors who have looked into things such as energy savings waste reduction and social responsibility issues for the workforce, said Bill Stough, President, Sustainable Research Group.

There are several committees and organizations that you can join as a business or individual.  For more information visit www.e3.gov or join the Michigan Green Communities Challenge at www.mml.org.green.