Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) has been awarded an Organizational Climate Leadership Award for its efforts in reducing its carbon footprint. The company’s green culture is not often talked about, but it is worth noting. Intel has been the largest purchaser of renewable energy in the United States since 2008. The firm’s own energy efficiency mirrors the increasing efficiency of its mobile chips.
Intel made a commitment to reduce its emission of greenhouse gases to 20% below 2007 levels by the end of 2012. By December 31 2012, the company’s greenhouse gas emissions were more than 60% below 2007 levels. That’s a remarkable achievement, particularly in an environment where Intel has been expanding aggressively.
The winners of the awards were selected by the Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, the Association of Climate Change Officers and The Climate Registry (TCR). 2013 is the second year in which the prizes have been awarded.
The awards are designed to showcase businesses, organizations and individuals who have managed to make great achievements in the field of environmental consciousness, without sacrificing their bottom line or their other ambitions. Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) is an incredible example of this.
Other winners at the awards included International Business Machines Corp (NYSE:IBM), and Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSCO). Both companies were given awards in the supply chain category. Cisco managed a 25% reduction in greenhouse gases from 2007-2012, while IBM managed a 16% reduction from 2005.
The awards are a clear signal that social consciousnesses can go hand in hand with good business. Intel did not sacrifice growth or innovation in order to reduce its emissions by 60% over five years. Other firms should take note.
Environmental consciousness is a big issue right now, particularly among younger consumers. In order to foster a positive relationship with those consumers, many firms have begun to invest in renewable energy sources and get the message out there that they do care about the environment. Environmental activism, if is to be effective, needs to be led by large groups of people, and corporations represent the most dynamic and powerful groups in the world.
The government fears reductions in competitiveness and job losses will result from harsh environmental legislation. Private companies, like Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) that acknowledge the problems need to drive change from inside themselves.
