Meet A.B.E. ...
for A Better Environment

Hi Everyone!
We all are aware of the environmental conditions that surround our lives. While fact and fiction on eco-issues can be manipulated to fit various agendas, one thing is for real, we all can do more to help benefit our home...the earth!

I am TSI's eco-mascot!

Like many things in nature, I am a cute little creation who is difficult to ignore. My initials stand for A Better Environment. I will be on display wherever environmental issues are the topic. So join the team and help work toward A Better Environment for all!

1. What is green marketing?
The process of evaluating potential options for marketing materials i.e. alternative to paper, high post-consumer waste (PCU) paper, producing marketing materials on demand, etc. Choose the most socially and environmentally responsible option available within reason, without ignoring your budget.

2. What are the benefits of green marketing?
	Quick and tangible way for businesses to lesson the negative impacts on air quality, water purity, and land preservation.
	Responsibly maintaining forests, so trees and plants can filter our air and soil remains pure to filter our waterways and aquifers.
	As more companies participate with the use of environmentally friendly products, the cost of materials will be reduced.
3. Why do companies embrace green marketing?
	The personal values of the business owners, managers, or industry.
	To tap into a subculture of customers who actively seek out environmentally responsible products and services.
4. How does green marketing cost compare to traditional marketing?
It totally depends on the green materials used. Some have a large price difference while others are small. It is usually priced out on a case-by-case basis.
5. What checks and balances are in place to ensure companies live up to their green marketing claim?
	Third-party certifications, such as the Fair Trade Label from TransFair USA on food goods –or- FSC label (Forest Stewardship Council, see more on the back page) for paper and wood products.
	Local environmental centers that monitor this activity in their local area.
6. What is the major challenge with green marketing?
To balance the most environmentally responsible choice while meeting a real-world budget. Not every green marketing choice is the most cost-effective.
7. Where is green marketing going in American business?
The future of green marketing looks very positive. More and more larger companies are making a shift in their choice of materials and production methods. Beware of being taken in as there are different levels of green marketing and products that can be branded green but only go through internal measurements and guidelines as opposed to an outside neutral third party.