Green Guide For Small Businesses - Written by: Ena Ayson, Jennifer Fisher, and Lindsay Murray
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Green Guide For Small Businesses Written by: Ena Ayson, Jennifer Fisher, and Lindsay Murray
TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................1 WAYS TO GO GREEN: Energy .............................................................................................................1 Energy Management................................................................................................................................. 1 What You Can Do ...................................................................................................................................... 2 Conduct an Energy Audit .......................................................................................................................... 2 Control the Temperature of Your Building ............................................................................................... 2 Lighting...................................................................................................................................................... 3 Appliances, Electronics, and Devices ........................................................................................................ 3 Renewable Energy .................................................................................................................................... 3 Local Example of Environmental Leadership .......................................................................................4 WAYS TO GO GREEN: Waste ...............................................................................................................4 Waste Management ................................................................................................................................. 4 What You Can Do ...................................................................................................................................... 4 Cradle to Cradle ........................................................................................................................................ 4 Waste Audit .............................................................................................................................................. 4 Reduce ...................................................................................................................................................... 5 Reuse......................................................................................................................................................... 5 Recycle ...................................................................................................................................................... 5 Composting ............................................................................................................................................... 6 Environmentally Friendly Workspace..................................................................................................6 WAYS TO GO GREEN: Water ...............................................................................................................7 Water Conservation and Reuse ................................................................................................................ 7 What You Can Do ...................................................................................................................................... 7 Conduct a Water Audit ............................................................................................................................. 7 Develop a Water Reduction Plan .............................................................................................................. 7 Implement Water Efficiency Strategies .................................................................................................... 8 Local Example of Environmental Leadership:...................................................................................9 Employee Involvement ............................................................................................................................. 9 Monitor Water Consumption and Program Effectiveness ....................................................................... 9 WAYS TO GO GREEN: Transportation ................................................................................................ 10 Transportation Options........................................................................................................................... 10 What You Can Do .................................................................................................................................... 10 Survey Your Employees........................................................................................................................... 10
Implement Transportation Efficiency Strategies .................................................................................... 11
Fuel-Efficient Driving Tips ....................................................................................................................... 12
AVAILABLE RESOURCES ................................................................................................................... 13
Ontario Power Authority ........................................................................................................................ 13
Enbridge Gas ........................................................................................................................................... 13
Union Gas ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Ontario Ministry of Energy ..................................................................................................................... 14
Ontario Ministry of Finance .................................................................................................................... 14
Ontario Ministry of Transportation ........................................................................................................ 14
Industry Canada ...................................................................................................................................... 14
Government of Canada, Canada Revenue Agency ................................................................................. 14
USING THE PRODUCT/SERVICE LIFECYCLE ......................................................................................... 15
Lifecycle’s Inputs and Outputs ................................................................................................................ 15
Understanding the Product/Service Lifecycle......................................................................................... 15
Step 1: Product Design ........................................................................................................................ 15
Step 2: Raw Materials/Supplies .......................................................................................................... 15
Step 3: Production .............................................................................................................................. 16
Step 4: Distribution and Transportation ............................................................................................. 16
Step 5: Product Use ............................................................................................................................ 16
Step 6: Disposal ................................................................................................................................... 16
MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ............................................................................................................. 18
Stage 1: Identify ...................................................................................................................................... 18
Stage 2: Plan............................................................................................................................................ 18
Stage 3: Implement ................................................................................................................................. 19
Stage 4: Monitor ..................................................................................................................................... 19
CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................................... 19
WORKS CITED .................................................................................................................................. 20INTRODUCTION
In Canada, there is estimated to be over 470, 000 establishments in the commercial and
institutional sector1. In 2008, this sector alone was responsible for emitting over 65 Mt of C0 2
equivalents to the atmosphere; a number that has grown over 37% in the last 20 years and
continues to climb1. At 36%, Ontario accounts for the majority of all commercial and
institutional establishments in Canada; therefore there exists a great opportunity within this
province to significantly reduce Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, and improve the
conditions of local and global environments by making even small changes to business
operations1. As a small business owner in Ontario, there exists several opportunities for you to
create positive and substantial change within the commercial industry, and help to reduce its
associated impacts on the environment.
The Green Guide for Small Businesses has been prepared for the Niagara Sustainability
Initiative, with the objective of providing small business owners in Niagara with a
comprehensive resource that can be used to increase the efficiency of their operations and
reduce their impacts on the environment. This guide will highlight a number of ways in which
to increase the energy efficiency of your business operation; simultaneously lowering operating
costs associated with your business, and minimizing your company’s impacts on the
environment. Management strategies for implementing changes are also provided, as well as
an overview of the incentive programs, and resources available for help with these endeavors.
Making an informed decision to improve the efficiency of your business will not only solidify
your company as an environmentally responsible corporation, it will also boost your bottom
line, and positively contribute to the health of local and global natural environments.
WAYS TO GO GREEN: Energy
Energy Management
Efficient energy use is one of the most important and effective ways to both reduce the operating costs
associated with your business and minimize your company’s environmental impact. Fossil fuels such as
petroleum, coal, and natural gas are the most predominantly used sources of energy and collectively
account for the largest source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions worldwide2. The burning of fossil
fuels releases a large amount of CO2 and methane to the atmosphere, both powerful greenhouse gasses
that significantly contribute to climate change. The burning of fossil fuels and the energy-intensive
operations involved in extracting, processing and transporting fossil fuels are both major sources of air
pollution and have resulted in extensive damage to ecosystems around the world.
Fortunately, there are several simple ways in which small businesses can improve their energy
management practices, and achieve savings of up to 20% or more3. Energy-efficient businesses are able
to enjoy substantial short-term and long-term economic savings associated with “going green”.
Additional benefits include improved indoor air quality, and better preparedness for potential GHG
1|Pageregulations that are likely to be developed and enforced in the coming years. The following list highlights
energy and cost-saving measures that can be taken to reduce your company’s energy use. Energy-
related incentive programs offered by both government and private organizations can be found in the
‘’Available Resources” section of this guide.
What You Can Do
Conduct an Energy Audit
An important first step in reducing energy use is to establish a baseline measurement by conducting an
energy audit on your facility. Energy audits are completed by licensed home energy advisors that will
inspect and assess the average energy consumption of your facility, and determine ways in which you
can reduce the amount of energy being used. Energy audits can vary in complexity, cost and the extent
of detail. A list of consultants, engineers, and professionals that offer products and services to assist
organizations in managing and measuring their energy use can be found in the Energy Management
Services Directory, on the National Resources Canada website:
http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/providers/index.cfm?attr=12
Control the Temperature of Your Building
Heating and cooling processes account for 40-60% of energy use in commercial buildings4. Simple
changes can make a dramatic difference to a company’s energy bill; using a programmable thermostat
can save as much as 2% of the heating bill for each degree Celsius that the thermostat is set lower at
night5. The following suggestions for controlling the temperature of your company building were
developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and can be found in their
publication, Smart Steps to Sustainability: A Guide to Greening Your Small Business:
During summer months set your thermostat to 26oC; and lower the thermostat to 20oC during
winter months an hour before occupancy.
Don’t waste energy by heating or cooling unoccupied buildings.
Seal any thermal leaks in your facility; drafty windows and poorly connected ducts or pipes can
be easily fixed, with little cost.
Replacing windows with new, highly efficient ones may be more expensive initially, but provide
opportunities for long-term economic gains.
Ensure your HVAC system is routinely subject to maintenance and working properly; all filters
must be cleaned regularly to maximize efficiency, or otherwise replaced.
Ensure your facility is adequately and properly insulated; it is important to insulate hot water
pipes and ducts that run through unheated areas so as to minimize heat loss.
Choose insulating products with high “R-values” indicating the insulating power of the
product. The “R-value” measures resistance to heat flow, and is determined by the
thickness and density of the insulation.
2|PageLighting
Lighting can account for 20-50% of a company’s energy bill4. Fortunately, several solutions can easily be
implemented at your facility to dramatically cut back energy costs associated with lighting. Motion
sensors or timers should be installed in bathroom and storage areas to ensure lights are turned off when
not needed; use of a light meter can be used during an energy audit to determine whether or not lights
can be removed in an area without affecting light quality4.
Simply replacing any incandescent light bulbs at your facility with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) or
light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can save up to $30 over the life of the bulb4. CFLs last much longer and use
75% less energy than incandescent lights, LEDS last even longer and use even less energy. If tube
fluorescent lamps are used at your facility, make sure to upgrade the tubes, install reflectors, and
change diffusers4.
Reduce the amount of artificial light that is used at your place of business as much as possible. Use
natural daylight where possible; skylights and light tubes bring light into a building without bringing in
heat 4.
Appliances, Electronics, and Devices
Appliances, chargers, and adapters leak energy even when they are not in use; ensuring that these
appliances are unplugged when not in use will reduce energy consumption4. Power strips can be used
to easily ensure all devices are shut down at the end of the day, and some are able to detect appliances
that are not in use and shut them down automatically4.
Many appliances like computers and monitors have energy-saving features that can be enabled; and
others can be retrofitted with controls to make them more energy efficient with minimal costs4. Older
appliances and electronic devices should be replaced with certified energy-efficient appliances to
increase cost savings associated with reduced energy use4. Products certified with the “ENERGY Star”
program ensures that the products have been tested and found to meet or exceed high energy
efficiency levels without compromising performance3. These products may require more money up front
but can pay back themselves with energy savings in as little as just over a year for some appliances4.
Renewable Energy
Wind, solar, water, geothermal and bio-energy (energy produced from biomass) all come from natural
and renewable resources; they produce fewer GHG emissions, and have a lesser impact on the
environment6. Aside from environmental benefits, renewable energy can help small businesses in
Ontario to incur substantial cost earnings7. The Ontario Feed-In Tariff (FIT) programs are administered
by the Ontario Power Authority; they have been developed to promote the province’s first reliable, cost-
effective and sustainable electricity system7. As part of a FIT program, if your business is able to
incorporate any of the following renewable energy sources into your business operations, and supply
the power you generate to the Ontario power grid, you will receive a fair return on your investment for
the duration of your contract7. For example, the microFIT program (for small renewable power projects)
will pay $0.82 to building owners for every kilowatt hour of energy produced for the duration of their
20-year contract; therefore if your business can supply an average of 4kWh of renewable energy each
day, a return of over $46,820 on your investment can be expected7. More information on the Ontario
Feed-In Tariff programs and renewable energy projects can be found at the link provided in the
“Available Resources” section of this guide.
3|PageLOCAL EXAMPLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP:
Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits
In the Spring of 2011, Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits,
located on the Niagara Stone Road utilized its 35,000 ft2
rooftop space, and implemented a 109-kilowatt solar energy
system8,9. The facility’s roof now features 759 laminate solar
panels, and covers 27,250 ft2 of the rooftop; space which is
leased to the energy company Enfinity, which provides the
system8. The energy that is produced is delivered directly to the grid, providing renewable energy to
the community8. Diamond Estates now enjoys the benefits of guaranteed long-term revenue for
space that is otherwise not used, no capital investment or risks, and a non-intrusive energy system
that neither impacts the aesthetics of the facility or the property9. In addition to the newly
implemented solar energy system, Diamond Estates also incorporates several other green initiatives
at its facility as part of their sustainable winemaking practices9. Some of these initiatives include: the
use of insulated tanks to reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency of cooling systems by
300%, and a STARS electrodialysis system to reduce electricity use during cold stabilization of wine9.
WAYS TO GO GREEN: Waste
Waste Management
Reducing the amount of waste your company produces, ensures that you’re business is operating more
effectively and efficiently. Waste materials represent depleted natural resources, damaged ecosystems,
and pollution. By reducing waste, your business will save money that is currently being spent on
unnecessary materials; additionally, you will be reducing the amount of waste that makes its way to
landfills or incinerators. To efficiently manage your company’s waste materials, the EPA’s Smart Steps to
Sustainability: A Guide to Greening Your Small Business recommends that small business owners adopt
the following simple steps for their business operations:
What You Can Do
Cradle to Cradle
Adopt the “cradle to cradle” approach for your business. This philosophy requires that products are
manufactured using the least amount of materials possible, and with the intention that the product can
become a new product at the end of its life cycle, as opposed to waste material.
Waste Audit
The first step in managing your waste generation is to understand what type of waste your business
produces and the quantity of waste produced. This can be done by conducting a waste audit on your
facility; this is done by weighing the components of your waste (plastics, compost, paper, etc.) produced
over a certain amount of time. Once you know the amount and composition of waste being conducted
in your facility you can decide how better to reduce, manage, store, and dispose of your waste; as well
as have a baseline measurement from which to track your improvements.
4|PageReduce
Consider in all aspects of your business, how materials can be reduced. In doing so, you will reduce the
costs associated with waste disposal. It is important to meet the following objectives:
Develop an inventory of unused materials; this will help you determine how these materials can
be put to use in other areas of your business, or how you can reduce the amount of materials
you order.
Ensure products used are vital to the success of your business
Ensure your business’ product, packaging, or process uses the least amount of material possible,
or do away with packaging altogether.
Evaluate whether or not materials used by your company could be purchased in bulk to avoid
extra packaging.
Ask your vendor to reduce packaging
Avoid printing materials when necessary; if you must print, print double-sided and print multiple
pages per sheet.
Use electronic versions of documents whenever possible.
Edit and review documents online.
Use electronic billing and invoicing as opposed to hard copies.
Reuse
It is important to reuse as many materials as possible as it requires very little energy, and avoids using
additional natural resources. There are several initiatives businesses can take to introduce policies to
reuse
In the kitchen, replace plastic/paper plates and cutlery with ceramic mugs or plates.
Instead of single serving packets of salt, pepper, and sugar, buy these items in bulk and keep
them in a refillable container.
Use scrap paper for notepads.
Look for companies that can use and will buy your by-products and wastes.
Donate unwanted equipment and materials to organizations within the community that could
benefit from them.
Recycle
Recycling is another measure that can be used to reduce energy use and save natural resources. Niagara
Recycling offers recycling programs for the following items:
fine paper glass
corrugated cardboard and boxboard polycoat cartons
newspaper, magazines, phone books tubs, pails, and lids
cans and aluminum foil plastics and Styrofoam
For information regarding how and where you can recycle electronics, visit:
www.recycleyourelectronics.ca
5|PageTo help you implement recycling policies at your business, Niagara Recycling can provide your company
with a recycling coordinator who will determine your recycling potential, monitor programs, promote
activities, and recommend improvements to your program. More information can be found at
www.niagararecycling.org
Composting
Composting is the process by which bacteria breaks down organic wastes into compost; compost can
then be used to fertilize soils and improve soil conditions. Composting is a simple process that can be
conducted both indoors and outdoors. Simply use a compost bin to hold organic waste, add moisture,
and turn the pile regularly. In 2-5 weeks, composted organic waste is converted to a useful material that
can be applied to gardens, under shrubs and as potting soil. Some materials that can be composted
include:
cardboard rolls cotton rags
clean paper dryer and vacuum cleaner lint
coffee grounds and filters shredded newspaper
teabags plant-based cups, plates and utensils
fruits and vegetables
Environmentally Friendly Workspace
6|PageWAYS TO GO GREEN: Water
Water Conservation and Reuse
In Canada, water is taken for granted; one fifth of the world’s freshwater supply is located within the
country, which has led to the belief that we have a limitless amount of freshwater10. In reality, Canada
possesses only 7% of the world’s renewable freshwater resources, which are still being misused10.
According to Environment Canada, the country has become one of the highest water consumers per
capita in the world, with an average daily domestic use per capita of 343 litres; second only to the
United States10.
Environment Canada also reported that in 2006, commercial establishments accounted for 19% of total
municipal water use, therefore as water resources become increasingly scarce, businesses should make
it a priority to reduce their water consumption10. This section of the green guide emphasizes that by
optimizing water consuming processes, reusing water and encouraging participation among their
employees, businesses can continue to perform the same activities using less water. By implementing
water conservation strategies, small businesses will help to protect water resources in the Niagara
Region and save money at the same time.
What You Can Do
Conduct a Water Audit
The purpose of a water audit is to measure water use in different areas of your business, assess the
sources of high water use and possible leaks, and identify opportunities for reducing consumption. A
typical audit process consists of the following steps:
1. Description of the facility:
This first step involves a visual inspection of the facility and a review of building maps and
plumbing drawings to identify the water distribution system design, and all areas with hot and
cold water supplies11.
2. Developing a water use inventory:
To obtain information on how water is used in your facility, the auditor may conduct interviews
with knowledgeable personnel, detect leaks, and measure water flows so that an inventory of
water use can be created. From this inventory, it will be easier to identify water reduction
opportunities11.
3. Preparing a water balance:
The objective of the water balance is to quantify all water used, and assess it against the total
volume of water supplied to the facility, which is recorded by the main meter. Then if necessary,
the facility can be divided into individually metered sub-areas11.
Develop a Water Reduction Plan
After the water audit is complete, a plan to reduce water specific to the business should be developed
and implemented. The plan should include measurable and achievable goals, a timeline to achieve these
goals, associated costs, and strategies to reduce water use that are appropriate and feasible for the
business.
7|PageImplement Water Efficiency Strategies
1. Reusing Water
Reusing water can be accomplished in two ways: by recycling grey water, and harvesting
rainwater. Grey water is wastewater that comes from sinks, dishwashers, washing machines,
tubs and showers, which can be recycled and reused for flushing toilets. It can be collected by a
grey water recycling system and stored in holding tanks, where it is filtered and disinfected with
chlorine before it is sent back for use as toilet water or for landscape irrigation12.
Similar to grey water recycling, harvesting rainwater can reduce a company’s water bill by using
rainwater to water lawns and flush toilets. Rainwater harvesting involves collecting rainwater
from a rooftop, which gets transported to an above or below ground tank, where it is stored for
later use.
The environmental benefits of having a grey water recycling system and/or rainwater harvesting
system include a reduction in overall water use and water being wasted, a reduction in the
volume of water that is disposed into sewage systems, which can in turn extend the lifetime of
sewage treatment infrastructure. Installing these systems can also result in reduced energy
costs and greenhouse gas emissions from pumping and treating water, which account for
roughly one third of municipal electricity consumption in Ontario13. An additional benefit of
collecting rainwater is minimizing the amount of water run-off that can potentially contain
fertilizers and pet waste into rivers, lakes, streams, and storm water pipes.
2. Retrofitting or Choosing High-Efficiency Devices
Depending on a company’s needs and resources, the owner has the option of retrofitting older
systems or replacing them with new, more efficient technologies. Environment Canada provides
the following list of main building fixtures that are relatively simple to retrofit and/or replace14:
Toilets – Older valve-operated toilets use about 19 to 25 L per flush. That amount can
be reduced to less than 15 L if retrofitted with a flow control valve, or they can be
replaced with the more efficient 6 L toilets, now commonly used.
Urinals – Standard urinals, which use 7 to 9 L/flush, can also save water by retrofitting
with flush valves that reduce water use to roughly 3 L.
Faucets – Older sink faucets can be fitted with flow restrictors or aerators, while timed
on/off valves can be used for washroom sinks.
Drinking fountains – Retrofits for drinking fountains include flow restrictors or timed
valves. Another option is to replace fountains with water coolers, which will provide
cool drinking water at hand instead of wasting water by having employees let the water
run until it cools down to their desired temperature.
8|PageLOCAL EXAMPLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP:
Aqueduct Water Solutions
Aqueduct Water Solutions is a store located in a strip mall in
Welland, Ontario that sells filtered water and water filtration
equipment15. The owner, Arnold Dube, made an agreement
with his landlord that he would cover the cost of the water bill
for the entire plaza because, out of eight businesses, Aqueduct
consumes the most amount of water due to the process that he uses to purify water15. Dube decided
to purchase and install a Brac grey water recycling system to offset his monthly water costs and then
convinced his landlord to connect all the toilets in the strip mall to the system15. Flushing for these 22
toilets is now being supplied by Aqueduct’s grey water15. Dube initially paid $3,300 for the grey water
recycling system and currently saves about 50% on his water bill, in addition to saving 50% of the
water that had previously just gone down the drain15. Aqueduct Water Solutions is a prime example
that shows how a small business can reap the benefits of recycling and reusing water, while having a
positive impact on the environment15.
3. Maintenance
Regular maintenance checks can also help save water. Equipment, piping and appliances should
be inspected regularly for leaks. If feasible, shut down all water-using outlets and if your water
heater is active, there are leaks in your pipes. According to Environment Canada statistics, “a
leak of one drop per second wastes about 10,000L of water per year”10. Thus, locating these
leaks and repairing them or replacing older pipes as soon as possible will be more cost-effective
to your business. It is also good practice to insulate hot water pipes to prevent heat loss, which
will reduce the amount of hot water needed to keep the water heated at a constant
temperature.
Employee Involvement
In order to successfully implement a water efficiency program, participation and commitment is
required from the staff. The staff must be aware of the program’s goals, objectives, initiatives, and
importance to the organization, which can be communicated through newsletters, posters, and
bulletins. Communications should be displayed in common areas of your work place such as break
rooms, kitchens and hallways, or sent electronically by email. Discussing the program’s progress at staff
meetings and asking for suggestions can also initiate staff participation.
Monitor Water Consumption and Program Effectiveness
A routine assessment of water consumption and associated savings can reveal the effectiveness of the
program and key areas that need improvement. Some monitoring tools can include a monthly
examination of meter records, a comparison of water consumption each month, a staff survey that
assesses participation and attitude towards the program, and any recommendations and improvements
that must be made, which can all be compiled into a regularly scheduled report (e.g. annually, quarterly,
etc.) for easy retrieval of information11.
9|PageWAYS TO GO GREEN: Transportation
Transportation Options
Air pollution comes from many different sources including residential buildings, industrial operations,
agriculture, and vehicles. Vehicle emissions are perhaps the easiest source to control and should be
included in any business’ greening strategy. They emit a number of toxic air pollutants such as CO2,
carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that create
ground level ozone; the main component of smog16. Smog can irritate the eyes, damage the lungs, and
aggravate respiratory problems such as asthma.
The environmental impact of vehicles persists throughout their life cycle, from production to disposal,
and not just when they are burning fuel. It begins with automobile manufacturing, which requires a vast
amount of energy alone from the production of its raw materials such as aluminum, steel, plastic, and
rubber4.
This section of the guide aims to reduce small business’ transportation footprint by encouraging
employees to drive less, and implement green initiatives for other business activities including
deliveries, shipping, and employee travel to work-related events.
What You Can Do
Survey Your Employees
An assessment of your business’ transportation footprint can begin by surveying your employees to find
out what modes of transportation they use to get to work and what their daily commute is like. Below
are examples of questions that can be asked in the survey4:
How far from work do you live? State the town or city and distance.
How do you get to and from work?
How long does it take you to get to and from work?
Rate your level of stress, one being the lowest and 10 being the highest, as a result of your daily
commute.
Have you ever taken public transportation to work? Why or why not?
Is your home easily accessible by public transportation? Do you know the appropriate bus
routes and schedules?
Would you consider public transportation if you were given an incentive such as subsidized
transit fares?
Would you consider carpooling with fellow employees to and from work, and to attend work-
related events during work hours? Why or why not?
Based on your employees’ responses, you can evaluate what improvements can be made to the
transportation efficiency of your business, and which options are feasible for your employees. For
example, since there are no buses serving Niagara-on-the-Lake, public transportation is probably not an
option for employees living in this town; instead, carpooling may be a suitable alternative.
10 | P a g eImplement Transportation Efficiency Strategies
1. Promote Public Transportation
The best way to reduce the impact of transportation is simply to drive less or not at all17. You
can offer incentives to your employees such as implementing a bus pass program where the
company will subsidize monthly bus and GO Transit passes, or have a monthly prize draw that
employees can enter using their bus transfers. In common areas such as kitchens or break
rooms, you may want to set up a bulletin board that displays transit maps, schedules, important
phone numbers, impending route and fare changes, and traffic updates that will alert your
employees ahead of time. Moreover, it is advisable to emphasize and remind employees that
taking public transportation can reduce stress levels, and allows them to read, listen to music,
and relax, which will be a better start to their workday rather than the frustration that comes
with driving in heavy traffic.
2. Promote Active Transportation
As temperatures warm up during the spring and summer months, this is the optimal time to
promote active transportation, such as walking and cycling to and from work. Cyclists can be
offered a rebate at the end of the year that will help cover costs towards the purchase of a new
bike, safety equipment, or bike repairs, depending on how often the bike is used to commute to
work17. Another opportunity to reduce vehicle use is during break times when employees
typically eat out for lunch. You can encourage them to pack a lunch or eat at a nearby restaurant
within walking distance from work because short driving trips consume even more fuel as the
car engine does not have enough time to heat up to its optimum temperature. If enough
employees participate, you may be able to speak to the owners of nearby restaurants and
negotiate a small discount on their lunch menu.
3. Carpooling
Encourage carpooling by setting up a meeting at work. Find out where each employee lives,
which of them would be able to carpool together, and have them decide who will be driving in
each carpool. You can also make carpooling mandatory if employees must visit job sites
together, or when traveling for work-related events.
4. Telecommuting
Giving employees the option to work from home, if feasible, and using video or teleconferencing
for meetings can save your company money on fuel and time spent driving, while reducing
greenhouse gas emissions. Telecommuting is beneficial for your employees as well, resulting in
reduced stress levels and improved morale, especially during winter conditions and for parents
who may need to stay at home with their children17.
11 | P a g e5. Choose Local Suppliers or Green Shippers
If goods and services can be purchased from local suppliers, this will reduce the time and
distance it takes to transport the goods and services to and from your company, which can
lower fuel costs charged by the supplier17. If local suppliers are not available, try to research
suppliers and shipping companies that are more environmentally and socially responsible.
Before choosing a supplier or shipper, ask them how their goods are transported, what kind of
vehicles they use, and if they have any green initiatives in place in their company. For example,
shipping by rail can be more fuel-efficient than trucking.
6. Choose a Fuel-Efficient Fleet Vehicle
If your company requires one or more fleet vehicles, consider buying vehicles that are fuel-
efficient, or if finances allow, vehicles that are powered by alternative fuels such as biodiesel,
electricity, or hybrid electric power. The Office of Energy Efficiency (OEE), a division of Natural
Resources Canada, operates an online tool that allows you to compare different makes and
models, ranking them based on their fuel efficiency. If you already own fleet vehicles, you can
use the Fuel Consumption Ratings tool instead to rate the fuel efficiency of your existing
vehicles.
Fuel-Efficient Driving Tips
Many of us have become dependent on our cars, hence it is virtually impossible to cut car use
altogether. The OEE suggests the following ways in which drivers can maximize their vehicle’s fuel
efficiency18:
No idling at any time – in the winter, the best way to warm up your car is to drive it
gently for the first few minutes
Avoiding sudden accelerations and sudden stops
Maintaining a constant speed when possible
Not driving over 100 km/h on the highway
Keeping your tires inflated
Maintaining your vehicle regularly – follow your maintenance schedule
All employees should be aware of these fuel-efficient driving tips, so create a bulletin at work that is
displayed in common rooms as a constant reminder, include it in new employee packages, and hand one
to each employee so they can display it in their own cubicles or offices.
12 | P a g eAVAILABLE RESOURCES
Listed below are a number of green incentive, grant, and rebate programs offered by both private and
governmental organizations to small businesses:
Ontario Power Authority
a) Feed-In-Tariff (FIT) and microFIT Programs
The microFIT program is an incentive for developing “micro-scale” renewable energy
projects of 10 kW or less in Ontario, while the FIT program is an incentive for projects
greater than 10 kW. Project owners are paid for the amount of renewable energy they
produce from sources that include biomass, biogas, on-shore wind, landfill gas, solar
photovoltaic (PV) and hydroelectric.
Website: www.fit.powerauthority.on.ca
b) saveONenergy, Small Business Lighting Program
Businesses that demand less than 50 kW of electricity can get up to $1,000 worth in
energy-efficient lighting and equipment upgrades. Examples of qualified businesses
would be clothing stores, small restaurants, garages, convenience stores, dry cleaners,
beauty salons, and medical offices.
c) saveONenergy, Retrofit Program
The Retrofit Program is an incentive for owners or tenants of business premises that are
customers of Hydro One to replace older equipment with high efficiency equipment,
including lighting and non-lighting.
Website: www.saveonenergy.ca
Enbridge Gas
Energy Efficiency Programs/Commercial Incentives for Small Businesses
Listed below are the numerous active programs that Enbridge Gas offers to small businesses
that install certain natural gas powered equipment and systems:
Heat & Energy Recovery Ventilator Programs
High-Efficiency Boiler Program (used for water and/or space heating)
Condensing Natural Gas Boiler Program (for water and/or space heating)
Spray ‘N Save Program (free low-flow pre-rinse spray valves for rinsing dishes and
utensils only)
Demand Control Kitchen Ventilation System Program
Ozone Laundry Program
High-Efficiency Natural Gas Under-Fired Boiler Program
Energy Star Qualified Dishwasher Program
Energy Star Qualified Natural Gas Steam Cooker Program
Energy Star Qualified Natural Gas Fryer Program
Tankless Water Heater Program
Air Doors Program (pedestrian air doors)
Infrared Heater Program
Website: www.enbridgegas.com
13 | P a g eUnion Gas
Energy Saving Programs
Union Gas administers rebate and incentive programs for space heating, water heating, cooking, and
engineering projects. You can also use their search tool to find programs that are relevant to your
business.
Website: www.uniongas.com
Ontario Ministry of Energy
The Ontario Clean Energy Benefit
A program that provides a 10% rebate on electricity bills to help small businesses transition to a
green electricity system.
Website: www.energy.gov.on.ca
Ontario Ministry of Finance
Rebate for Vehicles Powered by Alternative Fuels
Eligible vehicles must be powered exclusively by electrical energy, propane, natural gas, ethanol,
methanol, other manufactured gases, or a combination of these alternative fuels. The amount
of the rebate depends on the type of fuel that the vehicle consumes.
Website: www.rev.gov.on.ca
Ontario Ministry of Transportation
Electric Vehicle Incentive Program
This incentive, ranging from $5,000 to $8,500 is open to businesses that are looking to purchase
or lease a new plug-in hybrid electric or battery electric vehicle. A list of eligible vehicles is
available on the website.
Website: www.mto.gov.on.ca
Industry Canada
Canada Small Business Financing Program
The federal government assists small businesses, with gross annual revenues of $5 million or
less, to obtain loans from financial institutions by sharing the risk with lenders. Any one business
can qualify for financing up to $500,000.
Website: www.ic.gc.ca
Government of Canada, Canada Revenue Agency
Tax Credit for Public Transit (for individuals)
The Government of Canada is offering individual Canadians a non-refundable tax credit to help
cover the costs of public transit passes.
Website: www.transitpass.ca/
14 | P a g eUSING THE PRODUCT/SERVICE LIFECYCLE
The product/service lifecycle (see figure 1) presented in this guide was developed by IDEO and is found
in their report Using Life Cycle Awareness Tools19. The lifecycle includes the following six steps: product
design, raw materials/supplies, production, distribution and transportation, product use, and disposal.
Each of these steps make-up the lifespan of the product or service your business provides. When
developing a product or service, it is beneficial for small business owners to acknowledge the lifecycle of
their product so that strategies can be integrated to promote profitability, and reduce direct and
indirect environmental impacts. The following section of the guide provides information on the
lifecycle’s inputs and outputs, definitions for each stage within the lifecycle, and how each stage can
incorporate “green” strategies.
Lifecycle’s Inputs and Outputs
When operating and maintaining a business, no matter what product or service is being delivered, it is
helpful to recognize the inputs going into this process, and the outputs being generated. The inputs used
for these steps can include different types and amounts of labour, materials, and energy depending on
the product or service19. The output can either be waste, released emissions, or other by-products
depending on the input type being used and the product/service being made19. Once these inputs and
outputs are defined for each step of the lifecycle, an analysis can be conducted to identify the
associated direct and indirect environmental risks. Finally, a management strategy can be created and
implemented to reduce any potential environmental impacts.
Understanding the Product/Service Lifecycle
Having a basic understanding of the product/service lifecycle will help foster knowledge on different
methods and strategies that will encourage eco-friendly motives within a business’ operation. The
following headings explain each step in the product/service lifecycle (see figure 1) and provide examples
so to how “green” initiatives in a small business can be applied:
Step 1: Product Design
The product design step involves brainstorming ideas and developing a plan based on what you plan to
sell to the public. At the start of the product’s life, the design and development of the product will pre-
determine its environmental impact20. Therefore, it is useful for a business to first consider all steps in
the product/service lifecycle to determine if the required inputs and outputs are harmful. For example, a
designer should consider the life of the product after it has served its functional purpose (i.e landfill,
recyclable, etc)20. As a result, when deciding on a product design, a business should focus on realistic
options that have low negative impacts on the environment. For example, the design can include a
product made of recyclable material that can be re-used more than once.
Step 2: Raw Materials/Supplies
This step is based on the use of raw materials/supplies needed to create and develop the business’
product or service. It is important to choose environmentally friendly options since these materials will
be consistently purchased and used in order to create your product or service21. Additionally, it is helpful
to look for substitutes that may have less of an environmental impact.
15 | P a g eExamples include:
Purchase local supplies to lower the amount of transportation needed to deliver the materials,
reduce the amount of emissions released, and reduce delivery costs.
Purchase raw materials/supplies with less plastic or packaging in order to lower the amount of
waste generated.
Eliminate or reduce any hazardous raw material usage.
Obtain raw materials from suppliers that have eco-friendly products.
Use raw materials/supplies with longer lifespan so the business can purchase less, generate less
waste, and save more on purchasing costs.
Step 3: Production
Production consists of the manufacturing processes used to develop the business’ product. For this step,
businesses should analyze the different processes and equipment required to manufacture their
product; so that environmental risks can be identified21. These requirements can include: automated
machinery, human-labour, etc. It should be noted that this step is usually unnecessary for businesses
that provide services, unless materials need to be produced/manufactured in order for the service to be
delivered properly. Sustainable production methods include:
Updating the machinery’s technology so it is clean and efficient.
Using renewable types of energy, such as wind power or solar panels.
Finding methods to reduce the amount of waste or by-product generated during the production
process.
Step 4: Distribution and Transportation
This step focuses on the distribution and transportation of the business’ product or service to the
customer. Some sustainable methods for distributing and transporting you product include:
Use of a GPS system to calculate the quickest route.
Use of clean and efficient types of fuel.
Encouraging the use of public transit when possible.
Limiting the amount of driving as much as possible.
Step 5: Product Use
Product use is based on the consumer and how he/she will use the business’ product or service.
Sustainable options for product use can include:
Giving the product a longer lifespan by making sure it can be re-used more than once.
Reducing the amount of additional energy or materials required by the customer to use the
product (e.g. add solar panels to the product, reduce the amount of batteries required, or make
the product rechargeable)
Step 6: Disposal
This step focuses on what happens to the product or service when it is no longer usable. Eco-friendly
methods for disposing of the product or service include:
Making sure the product can be recycled entirely or partially.
Having efficient biodegradable materials within the product so it decomposes much quicker.
16 | P a g eFigure 1: Product/ Service Lifecycle
Labour Labour Labour Labour Labour
Energy Energy Energy Energy Energy
Materials Materials Materials Materials Materials
1. 2. RAW 3. 4. 5. 6.
PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION/ PRODUCT
MATERIALS PRODUCTION DISPOSAL
DESIGN TRANSPORTATION USE
/SUPPLIES
Waste Waste Waste Waste Waste
Emissions Emissions Emissions Emissions Emissions
RE-USE
RECYCLE
17 | P a g eMANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
After gaining an understanding of the product/service lifecycle, it is important to establish an effective
management strategy that can successfully implement eco-friendly initiatives within the business’
operations. The management strategy can be created by using the following four stages (see figure 2):
identify, plan, implement, and monitor.
Stage 1: Identify
The initial step for constructing a management strategy includes the identification of any issues and
major goals within the company. Issues within the business can include procedures and policies that
prevent the company from being environmentally friendly. Once the problem has been identified,
specified goals can be chosen. These goals must be precise and measurable, challenging and realistic;
they must address the crucial issue/problem, and having a specified time period22. Precision and
measurability provide managers with a defined standard and criterion that can be used to judge the
workplace’s performance22. Addressing crucial problems maintains focus on issues that are worthy to be
fixed; making goals challenging provides incentive to accomplish the goal (less incentive if it is too
simplistic) and making goals realistic prevents employees from giving up22. Having a timeline establishes
a sense of urgency which acts as a motivator22. To select an acceptable goal, the business’ resources,
conditions, and values should be considered. (See appendix A for examples of possible problems and
goals).
Stage 2: Plan
After identifying the goal and problem, it is important to construct an action plan that can accomplish
the designated goal based on available resources, conditions, and values of the company (see appendix
A for examples on possible problems, objectives, and actions).This plan can be achieved by using the
following 4 steps23:
Step 1. Develop a policy: The business should articulate a policy that focuses on preventing
environmental impacts, since it provides an overall basis for the transformation of the business15.
Step 2. Identify major aspects and establish objectives: This step focuses on identifying the most
important aspects of the business’ performance while staying consistent with the sustainability policy15.
After identifying the major aspects, the business needs to establish goals that can improve these aspects
(recall what was discussed in the Stage 1: Identify section).
Step 3. Select the indicators: Select indicators that correspond to the established objectives15. In order
to accomplish this, the business must assess how each of the major activities within the scope of
measurement (e.g. product use/consumption) contributes to the selected major aspects (e.g. generated
waste)15.
Step 4. Determine targets: Lastly, the manager(s) must decide on specific performance targets that will
represent milestones for both short and long-term improvements15.
18 | P a g eStage 3: Implement
This step focuses on executing the designated plan by taking actions within the business to assist in
reaching the target22. If the plan is developed properly, and all steps are carried out, there is a higher
probability for accomplishing the objectives and diminishing the identified issue. Proper implementation
includes integrating the plan into business operations while making sure the existing systems and
processes still operate successfully15. It may be beneficial to give employees prior warnings about the
implemented plan so they can prepare for any alterations to their regular everyday activities.
Stage 4: Monitor
After the plan is completely implemented, it is important to monitor business operations since making
observations will determine if the plan is successful. Monitoring also allows the business to track their
progress in reaching their specified targets; reports of the results can then be developed for senior
management or external stakeholders15. If another problem is observed while monitoring, the four steps
must start over again in order to address the newly discovered issue, and to further improve the
business’ performance. The four stage process could also start over when an additional product,
process, or operational change is required15.
Stage 1:
Identify
Stage 4: FIGURE 2 Stage 2:
Monitor Plan
Stage 3:
Implement
CONCLUSION
The Green Guide for Small Businesses advocates that with a few modifications to your operations and
management strategies, you can minimize your small business' impact on the environment, leading to
an increase in cost effectiveness and profitability. By integrating sustainability into the company culture
and your approach to managing energy and water consumption, waste, transportation, and the
development of your product or service, your business will attract green consumers and inspire other
businesses and communities in the Niagara Region and beyond to follow your example. It is important
to remember that a sustainable business is one that understands its impacts on the environment, thinks
long term and sets goals for continual improvement for the purpose of conserving our natural
environment for the benefit of future generations.
19 | P a g eWORKS CITED
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3. Government of Canada. Natural Resources Canada. ENERGY Star in Canada: Information for
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4. United States. Environmental Protection Agency. Smart Steps to Sustainability: A Guide to
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5. Ryan, David L. and Denise Young. Modelling Energy Savings and Environmental Benefits from
Energy Policies and New Technologies. Canadian Building Energy End-Use Data and Analysis
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7. "Micro Feed-In Tariff Program: Program Overview." Ontario Power Authority, 2010.
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8. MacDonald, Marc. “Winery will be home to solar power”. Niagara Advance. 2010.
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& Spirits Ltd. Accessed on December 1, 2011. .
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13. “Performance Evaluation of Rainwater Harvesting Systems”. Toronto and Region Conservation
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14. “Manual for Conducting Water Audits and Developing Water Efficiency Programs at Federal
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15. White, Shelley. “Rainwater: Catch it, keep it, reuse it”. The Globe and Mail. 8 July 2010. Philip
Crawley, Publisher. 20 Nov. 2011. < http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-
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16. Natural Resources Canada, The Office of Energy Efficiency. “The Auto$mart Guide”. 2006
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