Natural Resources Canada advises businesses to make three fundamental changes if they want to reduce energy consumption over the long term: change individual behaviours; change the outlook of the organization; and change the technology.
  This tip sheet offers some ideas on how to change your thinking, revamp your organizational outlook, update your technology and become more energy effi cient. You'll save money and your customers will appreciate it.

BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE
Thinking green
"In small organizations, it pays to have an environmentally minded culture and to train employees to be environmentally conscious," says John Lambert, Senior Business Development Manager, National Accounts at Direct Energy Business Services, North America's largest provider of energy commodities and energy solutions.
  Educating your staff about the benefits of energy efficiency is one of the first steps in changing the behaviour of everybody working in your store.
  Once you're thinking green, the rest is easier. Here are some tips to help change your staff's understanding of energy consumption.

• Brief employees on the costs of energy. Alerting employees to the costs of energy at your store may shock them into being more conscientious about how they use store resources. State the savings in terms they will understand. For example, how many hours could you pay an employee with the money you can save on energy costs?
• Solicit ideas from employees. Developing an energy efficiency plan for your store is a great way to involve people in bigger decisions, since everybody plays a part in energy consumption. Ask employees to brainstorm new ways they can personally help reduce consumption.
• Recognize energy leaders. Sears Canada, winner of Retail Council of Canada's 2006 Direct Energy Business Services Retail Energy Efficiency award, recognizes employees whose suggestions help the retailer cut consumption and costs. If there are people in your store who stand out as energy leaders, be sure to show your gratitude.

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