THIS IS MY SPOT.
MARIA ARMSTRONG, PARTNER AND BE GREEN! COMMITTEE CHAIR
Why has Bricker & Eckler gone green?
It actually started 20 years ago, when our historic building was in disrepair. We looked around us to see how we could preserve what was there, and make eco-friendly renovations. Over the years—and more and more recently—we’ve counseled clients on how to make their businesses green. And we knew we couldn’t just talk the talk. We needed to walk the walk, too.
What green practices have you implemented?
In January of 2008, we officially created the BE Green! Committee to build on the green efforts we already had under way. Our commitment to being green is extensive, but some of the highlights are a broad-based recycling program (151,000 pounds of paper recycled in 2007), EnergyStar-rated equipment throughout the office, and open employee forums for discussing new initiatives.
What challenges have you encountered along the way?
Lots of happy challenges. Lots of employees who have their own ideas for how Bricker & Eckler can be greener. These ideas push us and inspire us, and make our collective effort that much stronger.
What advice would you give other Columbus businesses about being green?
Just get started. Assign a team to the effort, so there’s focus and movement around it. Be sure to reach out to your larger employee base, too. Have brainstorm meetings, and make them open to everyone. Our brainstorms are monthly, and great ideas come out of them.