The process began with the formation of the Environmental Guidelines Committee (known as the Green Committee) to develop the policy. Who better to Chair the Green Committee than someone from Northern California? A very willing volunteer was found in Greg Gahagan, Operations Manager of ShipArt International in San Francisco.

“Our goals are simple” he says, “To promote environmentally friendly business methods throughout ICEFAT companies and reduce our impact on the environment. We are going to create environmental program guidelines so that ICEFAT can be promoted as a green organization.”

Before the next Convention the Green Sub Committee will conduct and analyze a survey of ICEFAT members to assess the current position and see what environmentally stable methods are already in use. There are many simple measures that can be taken – from small steps like turning off the lights and replacing incandescent bulbs with CFL’s where appropriate to larger commitments like implementing a 100% recycling program.

“This is an issue whose time is now” said Greg. “People have to stop looking at the costs and consider the real rewards. Green business is more than a good idea, it’s a practical and powerful way to help create a more just and environmentally sustainable world.”

Stefan Fors, President
MTAB Fine Art Shippers