Pioneering Sustainability in Veteran Entrepreneurial Business Leadership
In the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurial business leadership, East West Consulting Group International (EWCGI) stands out not only for its expertise in security, protection, and information technology but also for its commitment to sustainability. While more and more businesses adopt greener practices, EWCGI is leading the charge in demonstrating how even small Veteran-owned entrepreneurial businesses can prioritize environmental responsibility and align with successful international corporations, small and large.
A Commitment to Sustainability
EWCGI has embedded sustainability into the core of its business model. Recognizing the impact that many business operations can have on the environment, the firm has adopted a commonsense approach to minimize its carbon footprint while maximizing efficiency. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
1. Green Office Initiatives
EWCGI currently manages four different Veteran-owned small businesses under its corporate umbrella from a single location in East Tacoma. The headquarters building was terribly outdated in terms of efficiency when EWCGI first moved in. The firm now operates the building with 100% energy-efficient LED lighting, digitally controlled HVAC systems, internet-connected timers, rechargeable battery-operated yard tools, and non-toxic and environmentally friendly cleaning products. In addition, all staff are encouraged to improve their environmental impact through recycling. As a result, EWCGI utilizes multiple local services to ensure that the office’s recyclable waste — paper, cardboard, plastics, Styrofoam, metal, glass, electronics, and clothing — does not wind up in landfills.
One recycling service regularly utilized by EWCGI is Ridwell, a local company focused on helping households and small businesses reduce their environmental footprint by providing convenient and effective ways to dispose of hard-to-recycle items, such as plastic bags/film, batteries, and light bulbs.
Ridwell collects a variety of items, categorized into different streams, such as:
- Plastic Film: Includes plastic bags, bubble wrap, and other types of plastic film that are typically not recyclable through standard curbside services.
- Textiles: Clothing, shoes, and other fabrics that can be reused or recycled.
- Batteries: Household batteries, rechargeable batteries, and more.
- Light Bulbs: Including LEDs and CFLs, which require special handling due to hazardous materials.
- Threads: Old clothes, shoes, and other fabric items.
- Special Categories: These vary by region and can include items like electronics, Styrofoam, and more, depending on partnerships and local recycling facilities.
2. Remote Work and Reduced Business Travel
Adopting remote work policies, even before it became necessary due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has been a significant step in minimizing EWCGI’s environmental impact. While most Northwest Overwatch security officers must be on-site, our information technology and investigations teams, Destiny Technologies International and East West Security & Consulting, operate nearly 100% remotely. By allowing employees to work from home or a satellite shared workspace near their home, the firm has cut down on daily commutes and office energy use, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, EWCGI conducts nearly all meetings virtually, reducing the need for employees to meet in the office.
3. Sustainable Business Practices
EWCGI considers sustainability in all its operations. Nearly 100% of documents are created, transmitted, signed, and stored digitally, optimizing resource usage and reducing waste. The office not only has a minimal amount of non-recyclable waste, but also very little shredded material, using less energy overall. All staff are encouraged to hand clean and sort recyclable materials, creating less work for waste management facilities. By modeling sustainable practices, EWCGI also encourages staff and clients to adopt environmentally friendly practices into their corporate and daily lives. Check out the resources listed at the end of this post to see how you can improve your sustainability!
4. Leadership in Adoption of Technology
Northwest Overwatch officers are often required to conduct their duties on-site. However, technological advances are creating alternatives that save costs for our clients, increase safety, security and data collection, and reduce the travel needed to secure property and staff. For example, using cameras, robotics, and remote monitoring are ways our clients can reduce their carbon footprints while adopting environmentally sustainable practices. Camera systems can be monitored remotely from one location, reducing the need for full-time on-site security staff and allowing highly trained officers to be dispatched or stationed at locations where their expertise is most needed.
The Road Ahead
The journey towards sustainability is ongoing, and EWCGI is committed to continuous improvement. By regularly reviewing and updating its practices, the firm ensures that it remains at the forefront of sustainability in several key sectors – security, protection, and technology. EWCGI’s proactive approach showcases how much it cares about the community and attracts clients who value environmental responsibility.
In conclusion, East West Consulting Group International is not just a leader in the security and consulting industry; it is a pioneer in integrating sustainability into every facet of its operations. By demonstrating that effective entrepreneurial Veteran business leadership can go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship, EWCGI sets a powerful example for others in the industry. Their efforts show that with commitment and creativity, the path to a greener planet can also be the path to business success.
Local Recycling Information & Resources
- Tacoma & Pierce County Glass Recycling Drop-Off Stations
- City of Tacoma “What Goes Where” Tool
- Pierce County Detailed Curbside Recycling List
- City of Tacoma Recycle Center Guide
- Shred Paper Events
- Sustainable Solutions Classes