IBM Takes Lead in Implementing Energy and Waste Reduction Operations

Paul Brody and Mondher Ben-Hamida are supply chain experts for IBM's Global Business Services. Their November 30, 2008 article at Environmental Leader identifies 12 achievable practices businesses can undertake to reduce energy consumption, reduce waste and improve the bottom line. They include straight forward suggestions like using shorter transit routes and simpler packaging to more aggressive techniques like product assembly line modification and product re-design. All are bottom line driven. As state legislatures re-convene in January businesses should expect that some changes in their standard operational practices will be reviewed as a means to achieve broader public climate change objectives. Taking a present look at operations such as those implemented by IBM may help your business weather the transitions that are sure to come with new regulations. For a look at Paul and Mondher's full article please see:

http://www.environmentalleader.com/2008/11/30/12-steps-to-a-greener-supply-chain/

Green Business Practices Required by Oregon Regulations

Our clients have been asking whether laws have been adopted that require "green" or "sustainable" practices. The City of Portland, Oregon and Metro, the Portland regional government, recently adopted laws requiring businesses to separate and recycle plastic, glass and aluminum containers, paper and cardboard. Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski just released his 2009 "Climate Change" legislative package which includes initiatives on greenhouse gas reduction, energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable transportation. The greenhouse gas reduction is to be implemented through a cap and trade market system and adoption of greenhouse gas performance standards. Energy efficiency is driven by a zero emission building standard, required energy efficiency certificates for all buildings and government financing incentives. The renewable energy program includes continued funding for Oregon's successful Business Energy Tax Credit. If passed, the legislation will have a seminal and lasting impact on how businesses operate in a new climate sensitive world.

For a copy of Michelle Neumann's article on Metro's mandatory recycling program see: http://www.jordanschrader.com/articles/article0320.html