Question Everything

By Emily Artale and Hillary Dobos

In the television series, Cosmos, Neil deGrasse Tyson explains that one reason science works is because science requires that we question everything. And, through this process we uncover the truth. As you embark on new sustainability and energy projects and programs we encourage you to apply this practice in your search for the most effective, economic, and sustainable outcome.

As more and more people demand sustainable solutions, we see an increase in the number of sustainability options offered by a variety of private, government, and non-profit organizations. It can be overwhelming. How do we know what is a legitimate offering and what is too good to be true? Our proposed answer: QUESTION EVERYTHING. And, while you are at it, document everything.

BlogEmily and HillarySeptember 30, 2014 Comment

Setting Reduction Targets with Limited Information

By Hillary Dobos and Emily Artale

Setting sustainability targets can be one of the most intimidating and invaluable steps in creating a robust sustainability program. Goals need to be measurable and have real appeal to constituents and decision makers, but most importantly, goals need to be credible. We define a credible goal as one that can be realized while pushing the organization to make meaningful, aggressive changes where real benefits accumulate. But, how can an organization identify quantifiable, credible targets with limited information? How can they ensure that their goals are achievable so they do not miss their targets, while ensuring that they are not so easy that they are perceived as pointless?

BlogEmily and HillarySeptember 15, 2014Sustainability goals, Goal Setting, Quantitative Goal Setting, Qualitative Goal SettingComment

Why You Should Never Overlook Qualitative Achievements When Developing Your Sustainability Goals

By Emily Artale and Hillary Dobos

When setting goals that support sustainability initiatives we typically think that our quantitative achievements will be more compelling and more important than our qualitative achievements. Quantitative achievements can be easier to define, easier to communicate and easier to link to dollars spent or dollars saved. This makes their value stand out and makes them the preference of many “goal-setting experts”.

However, environmental and sustainability initiatives and programs are different than most traditional initiatives and programs that you might encounter in your organization. Sustainability programs are still evolving and some of these programs are still new to many public and private organizations. In some instances, we are still learning what is possible and therefore, we do not always have a legacy of projects from which to learn.

In this case, identifying and promoting your qualitative achievements may be just what you need to effectively describe the value of your program or initiative.

BlogEmily ArtaleAugust 20, 2014Comment

Renewable Energy Credits (RECS): A Review of the Basics and Questions to Ask Before Utilizing RECs as a Way to Meet Renewable Energy Goals

By Hillary Dobos and Emily Artale

Renewable Energy Credits (also known as RECs, Renewable Energy Certificates, or greentags) are becoming an increasingly common way for individuals, households, and organizations to reduce their environmental footprint and help fund renewable energy development. The following blog provides a brief overview of RECs and a list of questions that can help guide your decision to purchase RECs and guide your discussion with your REC supplier.

BlogEmily and HillaryJuly 23, 2014Renewable Energy Credits, Solar, wind, hydroComment

Increasing Transparency of the Solar Garden Process: The Top 4 Questions You Should Ask When Considering Participation in a Solar Garden

Community solar gardens are an emerging and an innovative approach to acquiring renewable energy. Many of our clients are asking us about the risks and benefits of participation, with an emphasis on understanding potential impacts on their financial bottom line and the ability to meet community sustainability and energy goals. We invite you to read our take on this process and use this information to guide conversations with your solar garden developer or utility company representative.

To learn more or receive an analysis specific to your organization contact us at emily.artale@lotussustainability.com or hillary@merrillgroupllc.com.

BlogEmily and HillaryJuly 10, 2014Renewable Energy Credits, Solar Gardens Comment

By Hillary Dobos and Emily Artale

By Emily Artale and Hillary Dobos

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