November 26, 2008
VANCOUVER – Businesses looking for ways to save money in these tough economic times don’t have to choose between their balance sheet and the environment, a new 82-page guide from the David Suzuki Foundation shows.
Doing Business in a New Climate: A Guide to Measuring, Reducing and Offsetting Greenhouse Gas Emissions draws on the experiences and best practices of successful companies from Canada and around the world. Case studies include:
- Hudson’s Bay Company has estimated that it saves $9.3 million every year through its commitment to reduce energy use. Retrofitting their stores with more efficient lighting and installing building automation systems paid for itself in about three years, demonstrating the benefits of investing in energy efficiency.
- Vancouver City Savings Credit Union (Vancity), Canada’s largest credit union, is the first North American based financial institution to be carbon neutral. Since 1990 it has reduced its emissions from energy consumption by 2,000 tonnes and saved more than $2 million dollars. It has also attracted new members and employees who share its values and like its conservation-minded approach.
- Smaller businesses are also getting in on the act. Salt Spring Coffee Company, a small coffee-roasting company based in B.C., has made a comprehensive effort to manage its climate impact, and all of its coffee is now carbon neutral. The company is using its climate-friendly products to differentiate itself and attract customers in a highly competitive market.
“During tough times like these, it is critical for Canadian companies to become more efficient, and seize the competitive business advantage of running more sustainable operations,” says Peter Robinson, CEO of the David Suzuki Foundation and former CEO of Canada’s largest outdoor retailer, Mountain Equipment Co-op. “What’s good for the environment is also good for business, and companies that manage their greenhouse gas emissions can also save money, enhance their reputation, and build loyalty among their employees, clients and prospects.”
The guide provides the practical tools businesses and other organizations need to assess their risks and opportunities related to climate change. They can then develop their own business case and take action to reduce their climate impact.
In addition to helpful tools and resources, the guide features case studies from businesses that are already realizing the many benefits and real cost savings of reducing their climate impact.
“There are many options available for companies that want to reduce their climate impact, including focusing on energy efficiency, reducing emissions from transportation, or even developing a carbon neutral initiative,” says Deborah Carlson, climate change specialist at the David Suzuki Foundation, and guide co-author. “Businesses of all sizes can benefit from managing their greenhouse gas emissions.”
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Doing Business in a New Climate: A Guide to Measuring, Reducing and Offsetting Greenhouse Gas Emissions can be downloaded at: www.davidsuzuki.org/Doing_Business_in_a_New_Climate
For more information, contact:
Jason Curran
Communications specialist
David Suzuki Foundation
604-732-4228, ext. 229
Cell: 604-961-9591
jcurran@davidsuzuki.org
Deborah Carlson
Guide co-author and climate change specialist
David Suzuki Foundation
604-732-4228, ext. 281
www.davidsuzuki.org
