The question on many exhibitors’ minds is, “Why go green?” NATO’s response is, “Because there are simple, cost-effective ways to make your business environmentally friendly, and because it’s the right thing to do.” According to EnergyStar.gov, “The entertainment industry spends approximately $4.6 billion on energy each year to operate facilities. Improved energy performance will reduce operating costs, which will increase available funds for attracting and entertaining your visitors.” Environmentally-friendly operations can save money by conserving resources, enhance competitive advantage and reputation, and offer positive opportunities for marketing and public relations.
Go Green!
The entertainment industry spends approximately $4.6 billion on energy each year to operate facilities. Improved energy performance will reduce operating costs, which will increase available funds for attracting and entertaining your visitors. (www.EnergyStar.gov)
Five Easy Steps to Go Green: Cinemark’s Steve Zuehlke shares his quick and easy tips on how “Being Green Saves Green”
- Doors: A 1/8” gap is like having a 4.5’ x 4.5’ hole in the center of the doorway = a huge loss of energy. A light gap under or around an auditorium door is an indication of air escape. So, be sure to insulate/weather-strip/caulk/etc. all openings.
- HVAC: Dirty filters cause units to work overtime, which makes the unit use more energy in order to regulate the temperature, and this creates an extra cost in energy usage in addition to shortening the life span of the equipment.
- Lighting: LED lighting is more durable and less expensive than compact fluorescents
- Faucets: The drip of one faucet = 1 gallon of water lost per day. Multiply this by all of the sinks and urinals in a complex, and the water loss is substantial. Stop leaks with an “O-ring,” or replace the flush valve in the toilet at a cost of $10-$12 per unit.
- Chemicals: When possible/cost-efficient, purchase environmentally friendly chemicals. You will save money and cut down on container waste if you purchase cleaners in concentrated form and mix the formula as needed; however, be sure that your employees are using the proper ratio, as waste and loss is caused by using too much chemical and not enough water.
Get Involved!
If you would like to get involved in the industry’s push toward becoming more green, you can join NATO’s Environmental Task Force and/or the Inter-Society’s Environmental Committee (ISEC).