As a result of disappearing forests, record high air pollution levels and the ever-present threat of global warming, public relations firms nationwide are changing their practices to answer the call of environmental stewardship.  To some, the thought of purging wastefulness out of a large-scale, professional firm and creating an entirely new set of environmentally sustainable policies seems daunting.  However, even the smallest changes have the potential to yield enormous environmental benefits.

The National Resource Defense Council’s “Guide to Greener Living” lists applicable tips for reducing energy consumption and increasing sustainability.

Recycle: Recycling saves resources, decreases the use of toxic chemicals, cuts energy use, helps curb global warming, stems the flow of water and air pollution and reduces the need for landfills and incinerators. Make an effort to participate in your building’s recycling program.

Buy Recycled Products: Challenge yourself and your co-workers to buy paper products with a high percentage of post-consumer recycled content.

Brighten Up Your Day: Open blinds on sunny days to allow for maximum amount of natural light.

Use Reusable Utensils: For office parties and events, rent reusable silverware and plates to reduce the amount of garbage.

Go Paperless: Send all in-house announcements, memorandums and invitations via e-mail.

Buy Local: Buy locally grown food for all company events.  Foods that are grown locally require less fossil fuel than foods that have been shipped.

Research: Take time out of your day to learn about new, green business ideas.

Adopting these ideas into your public relations practice has the potential to foster untold environmental benefits.  Being environmentally conscience and running a PR firm based on the ideals of sustainability and conservation is a simple way to make a positive difference.