Sustainability Consulting Services
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Our Approach
We take a phased, modular approach. We can
start with a simple opportunity assessment all the way through a full climate action plan.
At each step we strive to achieve tangible results while setting the stage for
further work based on demonstrated return on investment. Each step should
deliver real value, leaving you free to choose when and how to proceed further.
Sustainability-focused companies have been found to
financially outperform their peers in almost every industry by an average of
15%. We believe every organization can reduce its
environmental impact while becoming more competitive -- and usually with quick
cost savings as well. We bring this approach to every consulting engagement.
Expertise
Greening Point consultants are broadly experienced in energy policy,
engineering, carbon modeling, economics, lifecycle analysis, information
technology and general business management. Our resources include not only
our own staff but also recognized experts from a network of independent
consultants and partner companies. For example, recently we signed a collaborative
agreement with EcoShift, whose principals are
PhD-level scientists
who also teach and conduct research at leading California universities.
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We can help
you become more sustainable, more competitive and more profitable
with innovative expert services.
GreeningShift™ Quick Start
GreeningShift is a fast, simple, and low-cost assessment service to give your
organization an immediate "big picture" view of energy consumption, greenhouse
gas emissions and overall sustainability. We use a simple questionnaire
process and proprietary analysis tools to highlight those areas where further work
would have the highest payoff. Very little of your staff time is needed
and the GreeningShift cost is nominal. A clear report delivered in
a few
days describes energy
saving opportunities and areas where sustainability can improve.
Energy Assessment
Most companies can save 10-30% of facility operating costs through energy
efficiency improvements, and the return on investment on projects is usually
less than four years. In addition, most energy retrofits increase equipment
lifetimes and reduce maintenance.
We perform a comprehensive and customized assessment of all aspects of your
energy usage, including heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, the building
envelope, and operational and maintenance procedures. After identifying
opportunities for energy savings and renewable energy, we create a plan of
action consistent with your goals and investment horizons. Finally, we can
assist with implementation.
Energy reduction is a win/win for sustainability and cost savings. In
addition, renewable energy and energy conservation policy is now at the
forefront of regional and national environmental policy initiatives. This
emphasis has created unique financing opportunities at local, state, and national
levels, creating a situation that allows significant leverage in energy
efficiency investments. In some cases, up-front capital expenses can be
virtually eliminated.
Life Cycle Assessment
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a tool used to identify the net
impacts of a product’s life cycle from raw materials extraction, through
manufacturing, use, and disposal. LCA can be used for pollution
prevention planning, green engineering and design, compliance with
environmental standards, or to differentiate products based on accepted
sustainability criteria. The International Standards Organization (ISO)
has codified LCA procedures in ISO 14040.
Our transparent,
comprehensive, accurate, and adaptable Life Cycle Assessment process results in
a decision tool you can use to choose the best options for your organization, in
order to:
- Meet the increasing public demand for more sustainable products.
(For example, Walmart will eventually require all suppliers to document the
environmental impact for all products it sells.)
- Meet regulatory requirements. (For example, California’s Low
Carbon Fuel Standard and the DOE Loan Guarantee program both require
reporting on life cycle metrics.)
- Achieve cost savings & efficiency. (Many of the activities that
reduce life cycle impacts also cut energy and other costs.)
Climate Action Plan
Why create a climate action plan? A comprehensive and well-designed and
climate and sustainability plan is a necessary strategic requirement to be a
leading business:
- Cost savings & efficiency: Many activities that reduce
greenhouse gas ("carbon") emissions also cut energy and other costs, so a
climate action plan identifies a cost-effective way for you to operate.
- Enhance brand and reputation with customers, employees, investors
and your community.
- Risk management: Climate legislation, EPA regulations, public
opinion, and future energy prices all present potential risks to your
business.
Our clear, holistic, and adaptable process allows you to choose the best
options for your organization. Each Climate Action Plan follows these
steps:
- Greenhouse gas (carbon emission) inventory.
- Indirect emissions ("Scope 3") analysis -- not only your direct emissions
but also the impact of purchased goods and services.
- Development of a comprehensive and cost-effective business strategy.
- Training & facilitation to achieve successful implementation.
Take the Next Step
Our GreeningShift solution makes it easy to take your
first step. And if you're ready to begin a comprehensive program,
we have the capability. Either way, to get started, please contact us today.