Sustainability -- Going Green Everdream

Sustainability -- Going Green

Everdream is a mid-sized software company with revenues of $250 million and approximately 800 employees located in Austin, Texas. Historically, the company has been resistant to going green due to its focus on the bottom line of the business which has become even more prominent during the current economic downturn.

However, several factors have recently made the company realize that sustainability is an investment that can generate tangible benefits. Most notably, research is increasingly showing that customers value supporting businesses that are socially responsible (Good business deeds, 2004). There is growing consumer awareness that the negative consequences of poor decisions by a single business entity are shared by everyone. In particular, the public's anxiety over environmental problems is encouraging patronization of businesses that are making sustainability efforts and we are seeing an increased interest in our customers regarding our efforts in this area. Further, an organization's reputation in the community and its reputation for social responsibility are drivers for employee engagement (Corporate social responsibility: It's no longer an option, 2008).

As such, Everdream is seeking to hire an expert that can offer research, analysis, and recommendations in the following areas identified as top priorities for the company:

Computer Efficiency -- as a computer-intensive company, we want to invest in energy-saving computers, monitors and printers and are seeking advice on replacement options for our current equipment as well as appropriate recycling techniques and advice on how to exploit tax advantages for our investments and recycling program.

Lighting -- Our company would like to install timers or motion sensors that shut off our lights when they are not being used and would like to receive recommendations on the best technologies and vendors supplying these technologies.