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Go green, expo urges business
BY STACEY SHEPARD, Bakersfield Californian staff writer
January 18, 2007
Bill Wright Toyota salesman Larry Zavolosieck spent the better part of the day zipping around with local business executives in a hybrid car.
But the most common questions he was asked had little to do with fuel efficiency or expected savings.
Most just wanted to know how the thing worked.
"People think you have to pull it into a garage and plug it in," Zavolosieck said. "But it recharges itself."
There was plenty to learn at the Energy and Clean Air Business Expo held in Bakersfield on Thursday. But organizers wanted those attending to walk away knowing one thing: Whether it's switching to florescent light bulbs or constructing a brand-new "green building," an environmental approach is starting to make good business sense.
"A smart business is an efficient business," said Duane Larson, senior program manager with Pacific Gas and Electric and a keynote speaker.
Larson pointed to Wal-Mart's recent foray into environmentally sound practices, noting that even one of the world's most profitable companies has recognized the advantages of being green-minded.
Dozens of local businesses from big oil to heating and cooling companies attended the event to exhibit products or learn better practices.
Suggestions for increasing efficiency ranged from the small -- switching to fluorescent light bulbs and using proper window coverings -- to the big -- buildings designed entirely with the environment in mind. Businesses also were encouraged to investigate rebates and incentives offered through the utility companies and government programs.
The event included a presentation on the first certified green building in Kern County, the Kern Schools Federal Credit Union University Centre Branch on Ming Avenue in southwest Bakersfield.
Green buildings incorporate 40 to 50 design elements that promote energy efficiency and reduce harmful effects on people who work in the building and the surrounding environment, according to local architect David Milazzo. Some of the elements include using geothermal heating systems, maximizing natural light, using paint and glue that give off less harmful fumes and using recycled carpet.
Milazzo said green building is in its infancy but it's only a matter of years before it becomes more common, especially in light of projected growth in the Central Valley.
In the meantime, businesses are taking smaller steps, like getting energy audits and upgrading heating and cooling systems.
Lightspeed Systems has begun rewarding employees with bicycles to ride when going to lunch or making business trips downtown, according to Scott Garrison, the company's vice president of sales and marketing.
The expo was sponsored by the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. and Valley Clean Air Now, a San Joaquin Valley air quality advocacy group.
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