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Going Green: Thank You! And Go. See. Do!

minnis
Adventurer B

Thanks for all the great comments on last week’s Green Tuesday post – dryer lint was a very popular topic!  Some of the comments made me think, and I wanted to explain why I think it’s important that Southwest focus on the triple bottom line, specifically the Planet.  Yes, we are a Company that burns fossil fuels, and it's integral to our business and will continue to be.  For 41 years, Southwest has had a philosophy of operating efficiently, and efficiency is the foundation of our environmental commitment, because, at its heart, efficiency is the elimination of waste. Whenever we put a Green filter on our business decisions, it usually translates back to our bottom line. We wash our engines, because cleaner engines run more efficiently, which saves fuel and reduces emissions. We recycle because every time we do, we reduce our waste pickups, which is a direct bottom line savings.  We don’t waste, we reuse what we can, and we are always looking for ways to be smart about our business – that, to me, is the essence of a sustainable Company – we are built for the long haul and contribute in a positive way to society, each other, and the world in which we live. 

We're in the business of "go, see, do," so I think it's even more important that we do our part - in whatever small way we can - to help our Planet, so our Customers will have something and someplace to go, see, and do.  It makes me proud to work at Southwest for many reasons, but also because we are focusing on the triple bottom line of Performance, People, and Planet.  If you want to read more about what we accomplished in these areas in 2011, go read the Southwest Airlines One Report at www.southwestonereport.com.  Now, summer is here and this is a great time to go, see, do.  Here are some opportunities to experience nature, give back, and relax:

  • Camping!  Get in touch with nature and save some green.  Camping fees are pretty inexpensive and so are the activities that go along with camping like hiking, bird watching, and fishing. Take the opportunity to visit one of our National Parks.  Visit www.nps.gov to find the perfect park for you.
  • Volunteer!  Spend your time giving back on a volunteer vacation in a way that is meaningful for you, whether it is working with Earthwatch on an environmental project or Habitat for Humanity building homes around the world.  Check out www.volunteermatch.org and www.idealist.org for vacations that can help you make a positive difference.
  • Relax!  If spa treatments and gourmet cuisine are your idea of a great vacation, why not find an eco-lodge that is sustainable and sumptuous!  Find green retreats at www.concierge.com  

Have a great summer, and keep the comments coming!  Let us know what you like to do on vacation by commenting below.  If you have a tip for Green Tuesday, let us know at Green@wnco.com.

DING!  You are now free to be Green.