Troy Wragg, CEO and Founder of Mantria Corporation, suggests ways to go green while saving some green in his “9 for 2009.” At the foundation is Mantria Green – a set of pioneering principles for developing premium land and real estate with carbon emission offsetting and environmentally conscious design.

• Make decorations and centerpieces from real twigs, leaves and berries – leave the plastic ones to “the Ghost of Christmas Past.”
• Use energy-efficient LED lights to decorate the bushes and shrubs outside of the office. They use significantly less power than traditional lights and are durable and weatherproof.
• Instead of mailing conventional holiday cards, save paper and money by sending an email card from the team – some are even animated with music options.
• Set the mood by turning down the lights and thermostat at this year’s office party. Use candles to create a festive and holiday scented ambiance.
• Use office glassware at the holiday gala – it is reusable, doesn’t incur additional expense and is better for the environment than paper and plastic alternatives.
• Ask employees to contribute to this year’s holiday celebration by making their favorite recipe – it’s better for the budget, waistline and avoids ‘to go’ containers and excess trash.
• Get crafty. Let your colleagues know you’ll be making their gifts this year. A homemade treasure such as a hand-painted plate or needle point item is more meaningful, less expensive and more environmentally friendly.
• For this year’s Pollyanna, encourage employees to wrap their gifts with materials lying around the office such as old newspapers or magazines – cheaper than gift wrap and better for the planet.
• Ask those contributing to this year’s gift exchange to keep it green. Buying items at a vintage store will be easier on their wallet while recycling.