Like many businesses these days, some law firms are looking for ways to make their operations more eco-friendly.  This is not necessarily a means of staying up-to-date with environmental standards and legislation (although that is a perfectly valid reason to enact updates).  In truth, many firms are striving to meet the demands of a growing base of consumers seeking green businesses, while others would like to obtain the bragging rights that come with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.  In truth, most are just looking to do some good in the world through their efforts to run environmentally and socially responsible companies that their employees and clients can be proud of.  So if you happen to be part of a law firm that is looking to go green, here are some steps that a few of your competitors have already taken. Read the full story

Usually the term “greenwashing” carries a great deal of negative connotations. But taken more literally, green-washing may actually be a low-cost janitorial asset to your office building. Using environmentally-friendly cleaning supplies will promote employee health, improve ecosystems surrounding your building, and  save you money in the long run. Read the full story

For most of us, when summer rolls around we want an instant cool down and fast!  Nobody wants to wait around for costly and timely AC installers to squeeze us into their schedule and rob us blind with over priced installation and labor. Read the full story

Greenbiz reports a new study on carbon offsets called “The Forest Carbon Offsetting Survey 2009.” This study samples 120 corporations and 21 carbon market companies. It is sponsored by EcoSecurities, Conservation International, The Climate, Community & Biodiversity Alliance, and Climatebiz.com. Read the full story

We have heard of carbon taxes that citizens in some countries pay for greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon taxation I think is good for the environment and possibly makes people climate conscious. But what if people had to pay for everything they owe mother nature – air, water, coral, fish, forest, etc? Not too bad. Costa Ricans have been doing it for over a decade. Once known for the world’s highest deforestation, Costa Rica today is the world leader in conservation policy and ecotourism. Costa Rica achieved this remarkable environmental conservation through its policy called Payment for Environmental Services (PSA in Spanish). Read the full story

On the way to get pizza with my younger son, my wife noticed a squirrel running around the street. (See picture below.) The squirrel stayed near the car and at first we thought he was carrying a potato chip bag. Then we noticed the bag was covering his head. Baghead as my son called him, stayed near the tire and wouldn’t move. Poor Baghead. Read the full story

Wind power is one of the most talked about renewable energy sources. As an emerging leader in sustainable advancements, India is making great strides to harness wind power for electricity generation. Read the full story

Green Biz has exciting news on how GE plans to green the next Olympic games.

General Electric, one of the key suppliers to the London 2012 Olympic Village, is planning to propose the installation of Smart Meters in the Olympic buildings and parks. The company wants to show people the power of information that can be obtained with the use of Smart Meters in order to conserve energy. Other things under consideration for showcasing at the Olympic site are:

• Rainwater harvesting systems for cleaning and irrigation purposes
• Solar powered and LED lighting systems on signs, traffic lights and along pathways

My first test of TDO Forms for best practices