Guidelines for Responsible Resource Management
Office Materials & Business Management Practices
OFFICE MATERIALS
Paper
We use the NRDC published guidelines on mitigating paper demand and waste. Essentially, we have the following paper products in use:
Office Paper
Our standard printer/copier paper, envelopes and note pads are FSC certified, recycled papers. Where possible files are kept electronically.
Paper Towels
Purchase recycled products and use reusable, washable cleaning cloths preferentially. Environmentally responsible manufacturers’ products preferentially purchased (Unilever brands, Seventh Generation)
Bathroom Tissue Paper
Purchase recycled products
Marketing Collateral
All of our marketing collateral is preferentially sent digitally.
On occasion, we do need to print collateral to meet our coverage needs, typically for larger conferences where we may only have brief contact with a prospective client. For these events, we print a modest run of either postcards or double-sided flyers. Printed materials are always done double-sided on recycled content with environmentally preferred inks.
Supplier Billing and Payment
Where possible, we opt for paperless billing. All suppliers are paid via online banking or wire transfer.
Invoices for Clients
All invoices are sent electronically. No fee online payment is available to all clients.
Equipment
Printer & Laptop
All purchased equipment must be EnergyStar rated.
Printer Ink
Recently replaced printer with Espon EcoTank using refill ink bottles vs. plastic cartridges. Previously cartridges were recycled.
Promotional Items
We minimize our use of promotional items, however on occasion find that meaningful reminders and thank you gifts for our clients are an important aspect of our business’ sustainability in the marketplace.
We opt for utilitarian and sustainability-themed gifts (such as reusable coffee mugs, journals and notebooks). We source from B-corp or independent businesses and minimize transportation-related emissions by sourcing closest to the point where items will be needed. Our preferred vendors are Fairware (B Corp – Canada) and Ecoimprint (independently, family-owned – Texas).
BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Waste Management
Our primary work space regularly practices
- Paper Recycling
- Plastic/Metal Recycling
- Glass Recycling
- eWaste Recycling
- Kitchen Composting
- Through our municipality and via local drop-off (eWaste).
All of these services are also standard practice at our co-working locations (Vancouver and Chicago).
Virtual / Remote Work
Three years ago, 5T moved to a virtual/remote work model, eliminating a daily commute of 18.4 KM (11.4 Mi).
We minimize paper usage wherever possible through considered printing, double-sided printing, reuse of single-sided paper as notepads.
Travel
Local: We preferentially use transit for most local meetings as well as travel to and from the airport for longer trips. We also use local transit preferentially when traveling and prioritize transit use over ride-sharing apps or taxi.
Regional: Where possible, we opt for rail/transit when traveling within the Pacific Northwest or in Europe, given the convenience and lower carbon footprint, even when the travel time may be longer than flying.
In 2018, we will begin tracking our mileage for the purpose of both reducing as well as offsetting our commute. We will also be purchasing carbon offsets for air travel where these are not offered through the airline or booking agent at the time of booking.
Vendor Preferences
General
As advocates of social procurement and supplier diversity, we maintain a policy of seeking out suppliers who fit these criteria. Our primary subcontractors are local, independent businesses. We are members of WeConnect International and use WBENC, NMSDC and other certifying organizations to identify diversity subcontractors when needed. We intend to make increasing use of the BCorp network to identify key suppliers who are socially responsible.
We routinely examine the ESG practices of large vendors whom we give our business to, such as airlines, couriers, financial services and other similar large-scale suppliers. We procure preferentially from larger vendors who are committed to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Energy
Natural Gas with 50% sourced from community-generated renewable sources.
Electricity is 100% hydro electric.
Resources We’re Happy to Share (coming soon!)
Natural Resources Defense Council
Natural Resources Canada Guide to Renewable Energy
Women’s Business Enterprise National Council
Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada
National Minority Supplier Development Council
British Association for Sustainable Sport
Sport and Sustainability International
Fairware