Hey Mr. Green,
How can I persuade the company I work for, a nationwide restaurant chain, to adopt a recycling program? —Trisha in Cincinnati

Mr Green answers:
Try to start a pilot program in your workplace that other outlets can emulate. The first step is to find out what recycling programs are offered by the city's commercial haulers and what types of waste they take. Then ask if they pick up recycling for free or at a discounted rate. If they do, that'll be a big plus.

Next, try to identify an environmentalist in management, if indeed such a creature exists, and explain how recycling can save money (the economic argument) and help reduce global warming (the moral argument). Also point out that recycling is mighty fine PR. If all else fails, ask permission to set up a program yourself and organize your coworkers to help collect waste and take it to the nearest recycling center.

For more ideas, go to earth911.org and click on "Business Resources" or contact the Green Chamber of Commerce. If your recycling venture succeeds, you can move on to promoting energy conservation with efficient lighting, water heating, and insulation. Then you can kick back and listen to your supervisors gloat about how they're saving money and the environment.

Comments

[Ted Bondurant]

Hmm... That sounds like a great idea, Mr. Green. Something that would help one's business save money on utilities is something that would help the company focus on funding the projects that they make.

[Jasmin Shakespeare]

There are many ways to save. It's a matter of control and proper implementation. On the other hand, what you discussed here is what most people should still be aware of. Yes, they might know it, but they should still be reminded. This can help a lot. Thanks!