Senate Saves by Going Green and Paperless

By Wendy Osher

The governor honors the Hawaii State Senate for its green initiative. Photo courtesy, Hawaii State Senate Communications.

Governor Neil Abercrombie today recognized the Hawaii State Senate for its participation in the Hawaii Green Government Challenge.

The Challenge, administered by the State Energy Office, provides an opportunity for government agencies to work towards smart energy and resource-efficient operations.

In 2008, the State Senate launched its Paperless Initiative, which not only reduced the Senate’s paper usage by 80 percent, but enhanced public access to the legislative process by making more documents available to the public in electronic format.

The State Senate estimates that over the last three years, it saved half a million dollars in purchasing paper and copy machine expenses.

“We’re off to a great start in reducing waste,” said Senate President Shan Tsutsui. “The credit for our success in reducing paper waste while simultaneously improving public access goes to the many dedicated staff members who work here every day,” said Sen. Pres. Tsutsui.

The Hawaii State Senate is also supporting and participating in the Capitol’s conservation initiatives that include: energy conservation, recycling, emissions reduction and water conservation.

Other organizations recognized today for their green efforts include: Central Pacific Plaza, East West Center, Honeywell Utility Solutions, PBR Hawaii and Associates, Sustainable Island Products, WATG Architects and Whole Foods Maui.