What Does “Green” Mean to You?
by Sarah on May 25th, 2010
What does “green” mean to you? A quick poll of attendees at ShoreBank’s Green Festival Chicago booth revealed that the word “green” in the environmental context has no single definition. No wonder why there is such a debate over what is the best and most authentic way to “go green!” But I believe that there is a general theme in all definitions of “green.” I believe that, all definitions of “green” include the general theme of continuous reflection and innovative use of resources to create an improvement for the Earth.
Examine how Green Festival Chicago attendees specifically responded to my question. Responses included:
• “Green” means modifying the way we live so that [future generations] can survive.
• “Green” means utilizing energy to create energy.
• “Green” means only using existing resources that exist above ground.
• “Green” means sustainability.
These definitions all require an innovation of what currently exists in order to create an improvement for our planet.
According to my fellow blogger and Senior Vice President of Energy Finance, Joel Freehling, “green” for ShoreBank isn’t just about having the greenest branches (although this week is “Growing Green Branches” week for ShoreBankers). “Green” is also a suite of actions ShoreBank takes to help our customers be the most responsible they can be, within the constraints that govern their lives.
When asked what “green” meant to him, ShoreBank Facebook Fan and “What does ‘green’ mean to you?” photo contest winner, Adam Thada took this picture that shows even just removing one bottle can improve the Earth.
But what ‘green’ means to me is just one opinion. What does ‘green’ mean to you?
