About Green Globe

Green Globe Certification is an international company based in Los Angeles, California and provides sustainability certification, training & education, and marketing services reaching 83 countries worldwide. Partnerships have been launched in Mexico, Brazil and South America, South Africa, Middle East, the Caribbean and Europe. Green Globe Certification also maintains a global network of independent auditors who provide third party inspection and validation.

The Green Globe Certification Standard, the extensive checklist of environmental and socially responsible actions, is based on internationally accepted criteria developed during the 15 years of the Green Globe program. The Green Globe Standard meets and exceeds all the requirements of the Tourism Sustainability Council (TSC), which is the agreed international standard for sustainable operation, and management of travel and tourism businesses.

Green Globe’s Roots in Sustainability

The Green Globe program traces its roots back to the United Nations Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit in 1992, where 182 heads of state from around the world endorsed the Agenda 21 principles of sustainable development. The Earth Summit was unprecedented for a U.N. conference, as it was the first time world leaders acknowledged, as a group, that consumption of non-renewable resources was leading to environmental degradation.

In the early 1990’s the term sustainable tourism was in its infancy. Pioneering tourism operators concerned about the effect their operations had on the environment and how best to measure that impact, were often categorized into special interest tourism. Green Globe was developed to provide a way forward for tourism organizations who were interested in measuring their environmental impact and then developing and implementing strategies to reduce those impacts.

Green Printing and Sustainability

Green Globe Certification has been using Greenerprinter exclusively for all its print work for more than 2 years. Green Globe Certification’s key business is to assess and certify the sustainable operations and management of business, mainly in the tourism industry. As such, it is important that its own operations conform to reducing energy and water usage, while committing to recycling and green printing practices. Greenerprinter has been able to deliver through the supply of printing solutions (brochures, business cards and greeting cards) that manage to reduce Green Globe’s environmental footprint.

Many thanks to Bradley Cox, Director of Communications, Green Globe, for his assistance in providing this information.

About Eco-Schools USA

Eco-Schools International reaches 9.5 million students in 37,000 K-12 schools worldwide through the help of partnering organizations. In the U.S., the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is the sole host of this program. Launched in late 2009, Eco-Schools USA is now helping to green the school buildings, grounds and curriculum in 366 schools in 41 states, including the District of Columbia. With over 4 million members, NWF is one of the largest conservation organizations in the country. Each of this nonprofit’s programs supports one of three priorities:  Addressing global climate change, safeguarding wildlife and connecting people to nature. NWF is headquartered in Virginia and has eight regional centers and 47 state affiliates.

Eco-School USA and Sustainability

As one of the largest green schools programs, we focus on sustainability as the reason we exist for K-12 schools. We look at sustainability from a conservation standpoint as well as an education standpoint. Our program is based on a seven-step framework that is hands’ on and experiential in nature. More specifically, we believe that sustainability can be learned when students conduct sustainability audits of their schools and present a “green report” of their findings. Teachers can link the actions and activities to curriculum, thereby increasing kids’ learning both by doing and by learning. It’s all about environmental literacy. On the state level, we are working on educational advocacy called “No Child Left Inside.” The goal of No Child Left Inside is to incorporate environmental education into state plans so that all communities can benefit.

Printing Green

Eco-Schools has been printing green since day one. And our host, the National Wildlife Foundation, publishes five magazines, all of which are printed green. NWF’s paper purchasing program is guided by an internal sustainability policy (adopted in 1986) that states that NWF will incorporate environmental responsibility in its printing and paper useage.

Green Printing and Sustainability

Eco-Schools uses Greenerprinter for our business cards, brochures and large-format displays. Our business cards direct people to the program’s URL, while our brochure (pictured above) provides more info about the program. We love the matte finish and the fact that Greenerprinter paper fits so closely with our sustainability policy. Greenerprinter also did our conference displays (pictured to the left) – something we have not had until only recently. We really like how portable they are, and that now all of our printed materials send people the message that we are a green organization. Finally, we are also delighted with the excellent customer service we have received at every step along the way. For more information on just a few of the Eco-Schools USA projects, please visit their weblog. 

Many thanks to Laura Hickey, Senior Director of Eco-Schools USA, for her assistance in providing this information.

Today, we continue the series with the California Product Stewardship Council, a 501(c)(3) non-profit headquartered in Sacramento, CA.

About CalPSC

The California Product Stewardship Council (CPSC) is a coalition of local governments and their associations related to solid waste, recycling, resource conservation, environmental protection and water quality.

In partnership with non-government organizations, businesses and individuals across California, CPSC has created a powerful network in support of product stewardship and extended producer responsibility.

CalPSC and Sustainability

Sustainability and CPSC go hand in hand. CPSC’s mission is to shift California’s product waste management systems from government funded and ratepayer financed programs to one that relies primarily on producer responsibility –  in order to reduce public costs. As a result, producers inevitably drive improvements in product design that promote environmental sustainability and accountability.

As an organization, CPSC strives to practice the ideals of sustainability, including working with organizations or companies – such as Greenerprinter - whose products or services are specifically aligned to our mission.

Printing Green

CPSC formed in 2006 and our mission has always been promoting cradle-to-cradle systems for product waste. So we started working with the Greenerprinter from the very beginning. Plus, we believe it makes us more attractive to funders if we exceed their minimum content rules for paper and use only soy-based inks.

A few of the materials CPSC has printed with Greenerprinter include: banners with stands; business cards; brochures; greeting cards and postcards.

Green Printing and Sustainability

Printing green holds CPSC to its mission and ensures we are setting an example of good stewardship. It’s just another way of practicing what we preach!

Many thanks to Heidi Sanborn, Executive Director of California Product Stewardship Council, for her assistance in providing this information.

The 2010 series kicks off with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), a leading source and teacher of wilderness skills and leadership that serve people and the planet.

About NOLS

Founded in 1965 by legendary mountaineer Paul Petzoldt, the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) — a 501(c)(3) not for profit educational institution — takes people of all ages on remote wilderness expeditions, teaching technical outdoor skills, leadership and environmental ethics in some of the world’s wildest and most awe-inspiring classrooms.

NOLS and Sustainability

As a school that operates worldwide, we understand our students need to travel to far-flung locations. We hike and paddle in pristine wilderness. We’re making a mark and not just with the incredible education our students receive.

Since 1965 we have constantly strived to minimize the footprint we leave. Our in-town facilities are designed with sustainability in mind, student transportation to trailheads and re-rations are strategically planned for efficiency. And we do things like research methods for greater stove fuel efficiency, to both lighten our packs as well as our impact. At the end of the day, our students and graduates are NOLS’ greatest contribution to the environment. They experience our planet’s power and beauty, and they understand its fragility. NOLS grads are skilled positive leaders with an environmental awareness and a strong ethical foundation. Through our students, NOLS is creating a climate for change.

Printing Green

NOLS’ sustainability efforts reach every aspect of the organization. Naturally, we believe all our printed materials should also reflect this commitment. The fact that Greenerprinter uses paper from New Leaf Paper gives us great options to work with, all of which are FSC-certified and meet our own organizational protocols for recycled content. Using products and services from GreenerPrinter and New Leaf Paper only makes sense.

Green Printing and Sustainability

Greenerprinter has been extremely easy for NOLS to work with. The online system for ordering is a designer’s dream — it’s simple, clear, straightforward and easy to navigate. But we also know that real people are behind each project and available when we have questions or need a last-minute alteration to our order. Most projects run like clockwork, others need more attention, and Greenerprinter handles both with finesse and diligence.

We like using Greenerprinter for our graduate diplomas as well as postcards, flyers, postcards, brochures and other materials for our marketing efforts. Using Greenerprinter to print thank you cards for our donors and alumni representatives shows them that we not only appreciate their donation or efforts, but that we’re also using their contribution wisely. Greenerprinter’s customer service interface and its product offerings allow NOLS to help sustain our plant’s resources at the same time as sustaining our marketing model.

Thanks to Allison Jackson for her assistance in providing this information!

As the most popular green printer ordering site on the web, Greenerprinter.com gets a lot of visitors. Many of them simply have the time design skills needed to produce eye-catching, print-ready files. As an added service to our customers, we are expanding the availability of online design templates.

Now through our new Design Partner program, you can make your professional designs available to hundreds of new people around the globe. Each time an order is placed using your design, you earn a commission!

As a Design Partner, your work (along with your name) will gain great exposure and may continue to generate income for as long as your designs remain on Greenerprinter.com. For instance, a Bay Area business owner might take such a liking to your business card design that they contact you to create an entire identity package.

You don’t have to be a professional designer to become a Partner. Anyone with design skills and a computer is eligible. Plus you can track and monitor your commissions via a special section on your  Greenerprinter account’s Account Details page.

How should you get started? You simply need a PayPal™ account, a Greenerprinter account and designs that Greenerprinter customers will order (you will also be asked to provide at least one online sample of your work). Templates will be provided to ensure that your files are set up correctly.

Sharing your creative work with people who are seeking quality, sustainable printing is a truly unique and rewarding way to make a difference. Visit our site to learn more and submit your application.

If you need more information, please contact us at designadmin@greenerprinter.com or call 1-866-978-8547.

About Greenerprinter: Based in Berkeley, California, we have more than 20 years experience in the printing industry. From business cards and stationery to entire direct-mail campaigns, we offer a range of products and services that provide high-quality green solutions for business marketing and individual customer needs. Greenerprinter is a certified B Corporation, the proud winner of the 2010 Acterra Business Environmental Award and has been certified by the Bay Area Green Business program since 2002.

This week I had the pleasure of attending one of B Corp’s periodic social gathering in the stylish SOMA neighborhood of San Francisco, CA. Meet-ups and networking events are an ideal way to put a face on B Corp as an organization, but more importantly, to synergize with other certified B Corporation businesses.

Certified B Corporations run the gambit from web services to sporting goods retailers. Just a few of my personal favorites include Numi Organic Tea, New Leaf Paper, and of course Greenerprinter! Explore the entire list of certified B Corporations through B Corp’s online directory.

What are the benefits of joining the network of B Corporations? By becoming a B Corporation, a green company differentiates itself from other companies by truly walking the talk. As B Corp phrases it, it can exercise “its leadership, influencing the market beyond its own individual success.” The business also ensures that the values of the business survive through every phase of growth. And finally, a business can take advantage of discounts on business products and services, including Salesforce’s Enterprise Edition.

Through the course of the evening as I exchanged stories with my fellow B Corps, I learned that no matter what type of industry you served or how long ago you completed the certification process, we all shared hope and enthusiasm around the positive power of business.

Is your business – or the business you work for – a certified B Corporation? Why or why not? Add your comments below.

We conclude our series with SolarCity, a leading solar service provider.

About SolarCity

SolarCity provides solar power system design, financing, installation, monitoring, and related services, and serves residential, commercial and government customers in more than 500 communities in California, Arizona, and Oregon.

SolarCity and Sustainability

As a renewable energy provider, sustainability is the focus of our business. Our goal is to reduce pollution and lessen the impact of climate change by making clean power affordable enough to be adopted by millions of homeowners and businesses.

Other sustainability practices include the use of highly fuel-efficient hybrid cars, biodiesel and light trucks in our fleet; public transit incentives for employees; recycling of all excess construction materials; recycle, repurpose, re-use rejected paper such as cover sheets; recycle toner, aluminum, cardboard, and plastics; use timed lights and HVAC; and use of U.S.-manufactured solar modules to reduce the carbon footprint.

Printing Green

SolarCity strives to “walk the walk” in its day-to-day operations from a sustainability standpoint. As a solar company, other businesses are watching us to see if we will implement the same level of sustainability in our own operations that we encourage other businesses to adopt. The decision to use green printing has worked fine for us. There might be a slightly additional cost, but it’s  minimal and we make up for it by making use of digital collateral where possible.

Green Printing & Sustainability

Earlier this year, we were named Acterra’s Environmental Enterprise of the Year, in part due to our sustainability practices such as green printing!

Thanks to Andy Schoenstein from SolarCity for his assistance in providing this information!

We continue the series with Robert Sinskey Vineyards, a certified organic and biodynamic winery.

About Robert Sinskey Vineyards

Robert Sinskey Vineyards is a dirt-to-the-dinner table producer of fine wines. RSV is CCOF-certified Organic and Demeter-certified Biodynamic in all 200 acres of vineyards.

RSV pursues purity from dirt-to-bottle and is convinced that organic and biodynamic grapes create living, vibrant and expressive wines. Luxuriously elegant wines and earth-friendly farming methods are not mutually exclusive. RSV has found that caring for the land, combined with conscientious business practices, have helped define the well-crafted wines of RSV. After 20 years, the philosophy that “Wine is not an athletic event,” still holds true to this day. The goal has always been to make “pure wines of character that pair well with cuisine.”

Robert Sinskey and Sustainability

Fine wine should not hurt your palate or the planet. Since we are an organic and biodynamic vineyard, it would be hypocritical of us not to pursue sustainability in all aspects of our business and to offset our carbon footprint where possible. The winery operation produces 70% of its energy from solar energy. The current plan provides for a remodel of the winery and operations so that more than 100% of the energy required is produced onsite and all production water will be recycled.

Printing Green

For us, there was no transition at all from traditional printing to green printing. Greenerprinter is easy to work with and the end result is beautiful. We are constantly complimented on the quality of our collateral materials.

Green Printing & Sustainability

Printing green helps us to meet our sustainability goals because it was the right thing to do. It’s hard to talk about being green when that talk is printed on non-green materials. It was one more way of closing the loop.

Thanks to Robert Sinskey for his assistance in providing this information!

We continue the series with Brown and Caldwell, a company with a 60-year legacy of environmental stewardship.

About Brown and Caldwell

Headquartered in Walnut Creek, CA, Brown and Caldwell is a full-service environmental engineering and consulting firm with 45 offices and 1500+ professionals across the country. For more than 60 years, their creative designs and progressive solutions have helped scores of municipal, federal, and private agencies sucessfully overcome their most challenging environmental obstacles.

Brown and Caldwell and Sustainability

Brown and Caldwell’s legacy of environmental stewardship goes back to Dave Caldwell, who, since the founding in 1947, insisted that BC’s approach to facility design minimizes energy use. A true visionary, he pioneered and advocated wastewater reuse as early as 1970. Dave’s belief that the needs of society, clients and the environment can co-exist remains an integral part of the company culture.

As the company marks its 60th year, they introduced BC Green: an explicit commitment to delivering sustainable, economically efficient solutions to complex environmental problems. Sustainability – through BC Green – spans and impacts their personal and professional life much like the issue of work/balance. It will also lead to new ways of doing business at Brown and Caldwell, ranging from choices about the materials used and how offices operate to expanding the sustainable services provided to clients.

Printing Green

One factor in making the transition from traditional printing to green printing was the paper quality. The surface quality of recycled papers has improved over the years. The stereotype was that recycled paper was uncoated and had a speckled, grungy look to it. Today’s papers don’t even look like the recycled papers of the past. One of the challenges we faced in going green was being convinced that the quality of online “green printing” was just as good as the conventional way of printing; however, now we have found the biggest benefit to be the cost savings and getting high-quality printing in a matter of days.

Green Printing & Sustainability

Green printing helps us meet our sustainability goals because we can proof soft proofs online, we’re printing on recycled papers, we realize cost savings (by printing online), and we can even get eco-audits. The speedy service has also made life easier!

Thanks to Calvin Ng from Brown and Caldwell for his assistance in providing this information!

We continue the series with Clif Bar, a company that doesn’t just look at the bottom line – it looks at all five bottom lines.

About Clif Bar

Clif Bar & Company is a leading maker of all-natural and organic foods and drinks, including the organic certified CLIF® BAR energy bar, delivering Nutrition for Sustained Energy®, and LUNA®, The Whole Nutrition Bar for Women®. Committed to sustainability, Clif Bar & Company works diligently to reduce its footprint on the planet from the field to the final product. For more information, please visit www.clifbar.com.

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Clif Bar and Sustainability

We’re working to understand the impact of everything we do—from farmers’ fields to our final products. Ultimately, we hope to become not just a more sustainable business, but also a restorative one.

Founded on a love of the outdoors and a passion for making and enjoying good food, we recognize that we need to reduce our footprint through the food we make. As our business grows, being profitable sustains our business, but equally important are our four other aspirations—or bottom lines: sustaining our brands, our people, our community, and the planet.

Printing Green

On Earth Day 2001, we formally launched our sustainability program making a commitment to green our business. As we evaluated our business practices, transitioning from traditional printing to green printing was a natural progression for us. Conversations began to happen with our business partners; Greenerprinter being one of them. Through their services, Greenerprinter educated us about the importance of green printing and helped us support our aspirations of sustaining the planet and sustaining our business.

Green Printing & Sustainability

Making the change to green printing helped educate our organization about the importance of using less paper and utilizing the latest green printing technologies. Supporting Greenprinter in their efforts helps us meet the commitment we made to lessen our environmental footprint in 2001.

Thanks to Sandy Biagi from Clif Bar for her assistance in providing this information!