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In 2006, Genuine Health launched Genuine Planet and formed an employee task force to promote environmental awareness and action.
Our mission:
'To make the name "Genuine Health" not only synonymous with physical and mental well-being but also with environmental awareness and action, as well as the social impact therein. To promote earth-friendly choices and efforts both at home and in the work-place.'
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Genuine Planet Initiatives:
Switching to Bullfrog Power
Bullfrog Power is the first 100% green electricity retailer in Ontario who only buys power from wind and low-impact hydro generators that meet or exceed the federal government's Environmental Choice Program EcoLogo standard for renewable electricity. Their current electricity mix comprises 20% wind power and 80% low-impact hydroelectric power. In addition to powering the Genuine Health office, our events such as the annual party are powered by Bullfrog. We encouraged the Canadian Health Food Association to consider Bullfrog Power and the CHFA Expo East is now powered by Bullfrog.
New paper reduction for all company collateral
Exclusive use of environmentally friendly paper in all collateral materials. Our approved sources include recycled content from post -consumer waste and any virgin fibre from certified Forest management programmes such as FSC. Acid-free and chlorine-free papers are selected where available. This mandate covers product brochures, Health & Happiness flyers, and all internal and external company communications.
Internal recycling and environmental programme
Genuine Planet has implemented a comprehensive system of office recycling that includes all paper, cardboard, styrofoam, plastic, glass, compostable food, printer toner and electronics. Initiatives such as our Reduction Seduction Contests encourage, reward and educate staff to reduce their carbon footprint through double-sided printing, eschewing disposable lunches and taking bikes or transit more often.
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Climate Neutral initiative
In 2006 Genuine Health joined the cleanairpass initiative to offset emissions from employee cars. In 2007 we upgraded to Climate Neutral, recognized as the gold standard in offsets to cover all employee cars, including on-the-road Account Managers and air travel. This initiative saves over 200 tonnes of greenhouse gas annually. Until all our cars are emission free, offsets provide a way to mitigate their impact.
Support of environmentally focused organizations
Every year we contribute thousands of dollars in support to organizations such as The David Suzuki Foundation and support events such as Earth Hour. By supporting compatible organizations with similar goals, we know we are making a difference.
Products and Packaging
Where ever possible we source the local and organic ingredients. Despite pressures to increase shelf presence, Genuine Health has always used the smallest bottles possible to reduce packaging while providing consumers with the maximum amount of product and our bottles are fully recyclable. Any cartons are mandated to use 100% post consumer waste. By removing the inners on certain products we've further reduced our corporate packaging.
Biodegradable Demo Cups
We are converting to biodegradable and compostable cups for in-store demos and consumer shows to offset the one-time use of plastic products in these situations.
Choosing Green Partners
Where ever possible we choose partners who share our passion for reducing our carbon footprint, such as using couriers with hybrid vehicles and bike couriers for local deliveries. We are targeting a significant reduction of shipping and warehousing waste for 2008 by working with our external warehouse partner.
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Genuine Planet receives CHFA award!
Thank You! - We are honoured!
Genuine Health is proud to be the recipient of the CHFA Expo West 2008 Environmental Award.
In an industry where “being green” and making environmentally-friendly business decisions is key, this award is deeply appreciated.
Genuine Health has a long standing and deep connection with health and the health of the planet is a part of that. We feel that our efforts to create a corporate culture of environmental awareness and action are really just beginning.
Our office is green-energy powered, we are committed to offsetting carbon emissions for our sales team, we have a strong focus on recycling and education, and we have even taken it a step further by helping animals affected by the environment, but there is much more to be done. In fact, Genuine Planet’s future commitments include working with our entire supply chain.
By creating this award the CHFA has reinforced the importance of being green in our industry and the acknowledgement of our efforts is greatly appreciated. Thank you! |
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