The current administration’s decision to leave the landmark Paris Climate Agreement has grabbed headlines across the globe, eliciting strong reactions from leaders at every level. As the White House takes a step back from climate action, states, cities and businesses across the country are stepping in to fill the vacuum.
Large companies like Apple, Target and Mars, Incorporated are pledging to nonetheless abide by the Paris Agreement rules, which were created to curb carbon emissions in an effort to slow global climate change. Cities across the country, already feeling the effects of a changing climate, have signed up in record numbers, as have entire states. Smart businesses – including some Lilja clients – recognize not only the threat of climate change to their operations but also the economic opportunity climate action provides.
Large companies are stepping up and showing leadership. But what about small and mid-sized businesses, which number 30 million in the United States? Climate action is possible for them, too.
Lilja Communications is a small business that is committed to reducing our impact on the environment. While our footprint is much smaller than many other businesses, what we do every day – as an office and as individuals – does have an impact on the environment. Our actions – from meatless Mondays and driving hybrid vehicles when possible, to recycling and powering down workstations at the end of the day – are resulting in fewer carbon emissions. Bottom line: every reduction helps, no matter how small.
Today, Lilja Communications joined over 1,400 other organizations in signing the “We Are Still In” statement, an open letter that underlines our commitment to meet the targets set by the Paris Climate Agreement. In part, the letter reads:
It is imperative that the world know that in the U.S., the actors that will provide the leadership necessary to meet our Paris commitment are found in city halls, state capitals, colleges and universities, investors and businesses. Together, we will remain actively engaged with the international community as part of the global effort to hold warming to well below 2°C and to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy that will benefit our security, prosperity, and health.
Are you a small business that wants to do your part? Get inspired to action by reviewing our Sustainability Policy, which highlights a variety of areas where small offices can reduce their impact.
Next up for Lilja? Energy benchmarking!
