The number of companies who are going above and beyond the minimum environmental regulations is growing, and consumers should support their efforts. The companies are benefiting financially from their conservation, with the cost of implementation frequently being offset within three years.

The EPA is tracking these companies on the National Environmental Performance Track website. The EPA recognizes facilities that "set three-year goals for continuous improvements in environmental performance beyond regulatory compliance."

The program's 400+ members have collectively reduced their water use by 1.9 billion gallons, conserved nearly 9,000 acres of land and increased their use of recycled materials by nearly 120,000 tons."

For Example, Epson of Portland has reduced its waste by recycling ink, shut off its sprinkler system early to conserve water (yes, we here in Oregon have very dry summers), and eliminated the use of hazardous materials in its production process.

We should support companies like this if they offer comparable products. We call them "Companies that Matter," and you'll be hearing a lot more on that front soon.