What Businesses Can Do to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Businesses can take the following actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the bottom line.

Improve energy efficiency

Improving energy efficiency reduces greenhouse gas emissions and saves money. Your utility provider offers a variety of tools and incentives to help your business improve energy efficiency.

For more information, visit:

• CenterPoint Energy business program.
• Energy Smart - Minnesota Waste Wise energy conservation resources and services for businesses.
• Xcel Energy business program.
• Center for Energy and Environment - Commercial lighting program.
• ENERGY STAR - Information on purchasing energy efficient office equipment.
• Minnesota Technical Assistance Program - Energy sector.
• Minnesota Department of Commerce, Energy Information Center - Information on energy efficiency and grants and funding available.
• U.S. Department of Energy - Information on energy efficiency and renewable energy. 

Manage and reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Leading businesses are taking steps to understand and manage their greenhouse gas emissions by preparing annual greenhouse gas inventories and setting long-term targets to reduce emissions.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a Climate Leaders program to provide technical assistance and recognition.

Buy renewable energy

Purchasing or investing in clean energy technologies - such as wind, solar, biomass, small hydro and co-generation - can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency. Some companies have installed solar panels on their roofs and invested in wind energy to meet their electricity needs. As these alternative energy sources become more popular, they can address both the environmental and economic concerns of any business.

For more information, visit:

• EPA's Clean Energy Program 
• U.S. Department of Energy - Green Power Network 
• Minnesota Department of Commerce - Energy Information Center 
• Database of Incentives for Renewables and Efficiencies 

Lead by example

Businesses and corporations are evaluated on many aspects of their performance, including environmental footprint. Greenhouse gas reduction can be promoted using incentives such as financial assistance for employees who use public transportation, carpooling or even telecommuting.

Other green practices, such as recycling and environmentally preferable purchasing, also contribute to emissions reductions. Corporate policies involving employees and day-to-day operations can have a positive impact on the climate both in and out of the office.

For more information, visit:

• Hennepin County's Business Waste Reduction Program 
• Resourceful Waste Management Guide 
• Metro Transit