Green At Work

The Earth is a closed system with finite resources and the future depends on how we balance environmental, social, and economic objectives-or needs-when making decisions today. Sustainable Media is constantly striving to apply the principles of sustainability to our business practices. The following list illustrates some of the ways we are implementing sustainable values into our daily operations. We are always looking for new and better ways to contribute to a sustainable future welcome you suggestions. 

Equity & Community

• Responsible investing
• Volunteering time to community groups
• Charitable giving
• Supporting locally owned businesses
• Bartering for certain services
• Offering free information on sustainability

Green Procurement & Recycling

• Using paper made from 100% post consumer pulp produced in a chlorine-free pulping process for copying and printing, stationary, letterhead, & business cards
• Re-using and recycling envelopes
• Using recycled toner/ink-cartridges or soy-based inks for printing
• Composting waste
• Purchasing recycled office supplies (folders, binders, refillable pencils, notebooks, paperclips, etc.)
• Using reclaimed or recycled office furniture
• Recycling office paper, plastics, metal, plastics, newsprint, catalogues, and cardboard

Energy & Conservation

• Between 90-100% of our monthly electricity use if off-set by purchasing wind power through the Minnesota Power WindSense Program (500 kilowatt hours monthly).
• Compact fluorescent bulbs
• Energy Star office equipment
• Thermostats at optimal energy efficient setting according to seasons
• Opt-in only, updates mailing lists.
• Water conservation (rain barrels, low-flush toilets)

Environmental Stewardship

• Non-toxic cleaning supplies
• Organic fair trade/shade grown coffee/tea & unbleached filters.
• Biodegradable soaps and detergents
• Cloth  napkins and canvass shopping bags
• Participate in organized community clean-ups
• Organic lawn care
• Eco-friendly packaging

Affiliations

• Co-op America
• Prairie Wetlands Learning Center
• Communities by Choice
• MN Master Naturalists
• United Animal Nations Emergency Animal Rescue