The GAP Promo Blog

GAP’s clients are increasingly asking for “green” products and we are truly excited by the prospect of providing products that leave less of a footprint on the planet while also greening our own internal operations.  We believe that by embracing the “going green” movement, along with our clients and suppliers, we can all make a difference and help sustain our planet.

Many of GAPs clients and vendors have instituted sustainable development plans within their organizations. One vendor has formed a Green Team whose members meet monthly to “discuss and brainstorm new and useful ideas to help reuse, reduce and recycle.” The company offers employees incentives to carpool or take alternative transportation. Since printing is a large part of their business, since 2009, all materials have been produced with 10% recycled paper and using FSC certified printers.

One of GAP’s primary accounts set the tone for a commitment to corporate citizenship, a legacy built upon a foundation of more than 288 years in the beer brewing business. The company’s commitment to sustainable development starts with the grain vital to their product, includes the glass that holds the final product, and is also reflected in the manner in which the product is delivered to its final destination.

Many wine companies are becoming certified organic. One such company has partnered with its regional power facility to incorporate green power options and has invested in tree planting to offset its fuel usage. This company is leveraging a range of options to create a carbon neutral operation.

At GAP, we are seeking out more factories that incorporate sustainable practices and corporate responsibility into their missions. In a recent sweepstakes program, we included an outdoor furniture table and chair set utilizing 100% FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified wood products. FSC is an independent, non-governmental organization promoting the responsible management of the world’s forests. FSC certification allows for more informed purchasing decisions, benefiting individuals, the environment, and corporate performance.

A number of the companies from which we regularly source promotional products have introduced Eco-Friendly products, and the list continues to grow. For example, one of our current catalog offerings, a Lip Balm Tin, is produced using only all-natural, environmentally-safe ingredients. Additionally, in response to the backlash over plastic products, other alternatives for packaging have been introduced including corn-based and recycled paper.

Awareness of how we use energy on a daily basis, both personally and in business, will create not only a cleaner planet but a place that sustains a healthier life for years to come. As Amory Lovins of the Rocky Mountain Institute put it: “Mainstream America’s concerns of “hot showers, cold beer and lit rooms” can be achieved with renewable energies and energy conservation.”  The bottom line is we can all contribute in small ways.

As we source items for 2012, we increasingly look towards environmentally-friendly options and we will continue to seek out ways to make our operations more energy efficient and environmentally responsible. We look forward to working with our valued clients and suppliers to find even more ways to lighten our footprint and protect Mother Earth.

Drink Beer, Save Water


FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)