Since i've been back from NOLA, i've tried to take some of the lessons i've learned about going green out of merely my own daily life and introduce some changes into the parts of other's lives that I get to impact.
At Apple, we use so many resources every single day that offsetting the footprint is one hell of a challenge. Plastic bags that are really cool and everyone tends to want, packaging materials that are intended to keep expensive electronic equipment safe (although, to Apple's credit, it still seems to be less than other companies- the iPod comes in the smallest packaging and no longer comes with a disk for iTunes, we are encouraged to suggest that people download the program online, for example. As well, some software that we offer can be downloaded online. This cuts down on packaging and excessive use of polycarbonate plastics) However, the store still runs through a large amount of treated paper for thermal receipts, paper for rebate forms, all the assorted stickers that we use to mark items doa, on hold or returned. In an attempt to reduce the waste that I no longer want to be feeling responsible for, i've chosen to challenge people to think more about what's important to them when purchasing a product from a company that is concerned about the environmental impact it has. And it is interesting in that some of my colleagues are following suit.
I've taken to asking people who already have several bags from other stores in the mall if they would like a bag at all or if they would rather use one of the ones that they have as well as asking them if I can email them a receipt. The bag thing is easy, but sometimes people get a little stressed when I ask about the emailing thing. I let them know that it works out better for them because it's one less bit of paper that they have to carry around and having the email allows them to have a copy of the receipt easily available to them in the event they need it in the future. In most instances, they agree at this point. I've found that phrasing is key. Mention going green and people start to think that one is some nut job, tree-hugging weirdo trying to force others to start eating tofu and sprouts. However, mention the ease of filing things away, and suddenly they see the benefit of not having to keep track of a small bit of paper.
Of course, there are those who simply refuse to concede either point, but they are hopefully offset by the people who don't need that groovy Apple bag or a paper receipt to prove to the world that they are cooler than them. My guess is they already know it.
Good for them.
