Issue: February 1, 2010

THINK GREEN

In recent years I have found ways to reduce my family’s carbon footprint: every piece of paper and box gets sorted, along with plastic cups, cans and bottles. We use reusable water bottles, bring canvas bags to the market and we don’t let the water run while brushing teeth. It’s not much, but I have to believe it helps in some way, and it teaches my kids how to be more conscious of their actions for the greater good.

Post Magazine is also doing its part by using Soy ink and encouraging everyone — after reading the magazine cover to cover, of course — to put us in the recycle bin.
Our industry is a progressive one that has taken on the green issue with fervor. See page 26 featuring just a few in our industry who are fighting for change each day.

Oregon’s Bent Image Labs operates in an environmentally-friendly way. Ray Di Carlo, partner/EP, says, “Our bike rack is usually near capacity. Portland is a truly bike- and pedestrian-friendly city, and our location in a vibrant southeast Portland neighborhood means most of our employees live within easy walking or cycling distance to the studio. Besides keeping dozens of cars off the road every day, doing business in the same neighborhood we live in creates a strong community feel.”

Fred Ruckel, owner of NYC’s Stitch and proud owner of a green log home, shares: “Make your home more efficient. There are many tax incentives for replacing things such as windows and insulation. Proper insulation isn’t only about keeping the house warm in winter; it also keeps it cooler in summer, allowing less energy use in both seasons. This is an immediate cost savings.” He points us to www.dsireusa.org to read about the incentives.
Ruckel also suggests using green/chemical-free cleaners. “It’s better on your skin, plus the air is better to breathe in your home, it will contribute to healthier living.”

Gear makers are doing their part too. “Beginning in 2005, with the challenge of re-engineering Avid’s broad product line to be compliant with European Union RoHS regulation, we developed a more strategic approach to environmental conservation,” says CEO Gary Greenfield. “We have provided recycling stations for paper, plastics, scrap metals, batteries and electronics for a number of years. Our IT organization has upgraded to blade technology and implemented virtualized environments. Our Ireland location has received ISO 14001 certification and our Mountain View, CA, location has installed a California Title 24 “Cool Roof.” Avid has many other initiatives planned for 2010.

Kermit was wrong. It IS easy being green.