Opto 22, a developer and manufacturer of hardware and software for industrial automation, remote monitoring, data acquisition, and machine-to-machine applications, implemented a full-scale company-wide energy conservation and reduction plan called, “OptoGreen,” cutting power consumption by 29% in 12 months.

The initiative, which started in June 2006, is focused on environmental responsibility through conservation, recycling, and sustainability by reducing overall water usage, establishing more energy-efficient HVAC systems, and maximizing use of natural sunlight over electric lighting. In addition to environmentally friendly day-to-day business practices, which promote sustainability, conservation, and pollution prevention, OptoGreen implemented the recycling of all lunchroom cans and plastics, as well as light bulbs, glass, and aluminum, and production wastes like wires, lead trimming, and solder dross.

Recently, Opto 22 has worked with the Bonneville Environmental Foundation (BEF) to calculate its remaining carbon footprint (the measure of the amount of CO2 emitted through the combustion of fossil fuels). The company is now offsetting that footprint through the purchase of Green-e-certified Green Tags from BEF causing its corporate headquarters and manufacturing facilities to be carbon neutral.

OptoGreen also recognizes the efforts of customers involved in projects that address environmental issues through research and development activities and new products and services in fields such as energy management, alternative fuels, biodiesel production, and recycling plants.

“We are currently developing a sponsorship program to encourage, support, and help fund research organizations, educational institutions, and government bodies dedicated to conservation and to the research, development, sourcing, and production of alternative and renewable energy through the application of automation technology,” says Mark Engman, CEO of Opto 22. “We have also begun to education our employees on the importance of environmental awareness both in the workplace and at home.”

www.opto22.com