Service specifications: looking for an environmentally friendly service?

 

Just because a service calls itself ‘green' or ‘environmental' does not mean it is! Get past the "green wash" and know that you are gaining a green printer, plumber or eco-tour. Use a written contract guaranteeing the environmental outcomes you have paid for and naming any liabilities or defaults.

Look for consultants and services that have and can provide verification of:

The environmental benefits of their practices. Examples include printing services that minimise chemical use and only use recycled paper, green catering services using locally grown in season produce and minimising take-away containers, or hotels/conference venues buying accredited GreenPower and re-using grey water.

Material Specification Listings for primary materials used. Material Specification Listings are provided by manufacturers to explain what something is made from and how it is made. They are provided for a variety of building materials such as paints and solvents, particleboard or fibreboard, kitchen cabinetry, sustainably grown and harvested timber, and recycled concrete. Ask carpenters and other contractors to obtain and supply such listings for any materials they intend to use.

Certification or accreditation. Ask for proof of service credentials; examples include a green building or plumbing certificate, environmental qualifications for design consultants, or industry accreditation of eco-tour travel agencies. Some industries have internationally recognised eco-accreditation, such as Green Globe 21 in the tourism industry.

Have proven experience. It can be both frustrating and futile if you are educating the consultant or contractor about sustainability elements with which they are meant to be familiar. Always ask to see examples of their previous work or speak to other customers before you settle on a contractor or service.