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Green Election Campaign Manager

With the public aware of the need to be more eco-friendly candidates for office may do well having a manager pushing a greener, healthier campaign. It doesn't mean going green has to be one of the issues but the fact a campaign is holding to certain standards can be very attractive to many voters.

The qualifications to be a green campaign manager have a wide range. Aside from the necessary managerial skills the person should be familiar with and active in recycling, reusing, conservation of resources, technological advances that reduce waste and pollution of all kinds, and how to integrate these strategies into the candidate's race.

This means instituting changes that are not always easy to implement and often receive opposition but will be beneficial to the campaign, the voters, and everyone involved. Some examples include the following:

* Using social media/the internet: For years now corresponding digitally has already cut down on the amount of paper and other forms of waste but it could be fine-tuned to an even smaller allotment. As much campaign advertising as possible should be done electronically and for the few mailings sent to voters make sure they are imprinted with the recycle symbol to alert people how to dispose of them properly. Also, Staffers always have to write things down and check notes. That's why handing out digital devices such as laptops, tablet computers and other similar gadgets can bring paper usage to a near halt.

* Recyclable gimmicks: Voters elect candidates, not gimmicks. Nevertheless, attention grabbers are often necessary to spread the message. Whether its water bottles, key chains, buttons, or other tchotchkes, when choosing them make sure they are as eco-friendly and recyclable as possible.

* Transportation: Encourage campaign professionals and volunteers to use public transportation instead of burning gasoline and adding emissions to the air. Very often this can be encouraged by giving out incentives such as coupons to restaurants and stores.

* Greening the headquarters: The office where it all takes place should be set up with a green mind. Some examples of ways to green the headquarters are:

1. Make recycling stations for everything from paper to plastic to glass
2. Try and use only biodegradable plates, cups, and cutlery
3. Use Compact florescent bulbs (CFLs)
4. Monitor water usage
5. Make a plan for all waste, if it can be reused or not
6. Green cleaning products that are non-toxic and chemical-free should be the cleaners of choice.

* Pushing the Green agenda: Finally, depending on the circumstances and the vision of the party or candidate, going green can easily be made into an issue, especially if new housing, zoning, or more efficient rubbish removal systems are hot campaign issues. However, even if that isn't the case adding a little green to any topic of discussion works, as everyone cares about the environment and wants a better world around them.

Jakob Barry writes for Networx.com. He covers various home improvement topics including Green commercial cleaning and house cleaning services.