Sustainability Profile: Tech House Computer Services

1. What is your company's brand promise, vision or statement of values, and how does it relate to sustainability?

Tech House Computer Services is an on-site computer services company that serves Calgary's inner city communities. We help residents, non-profit organizations and businesses get the most from their computer technology by providing personalized, cost effective services and solutions. At your home or work place, Tech House Computer Services is your partner in environmentally, socially, economically and personally sustainable IT services.
2. How are your products or services environmentally and socially sustainable?

I believe that running a locally owned independent business is one of the most powerful statements I can make regarding environmental and social sustainability. I am able to hire locally, and have full autonomy over the decisions that make my business increasingly more socially and environmentally viable, while ensuring that it remains economically and (most important) personally sustainable.
3. How does your company give preference to suppliers who create positive social and environmental benefits either through their products and services or through their community partnerships?

I do my best to work with local suppliers. I do not have the resources to do research on the practices of my local suppliers, though I do keep tabs through Green Peace on which computer products are considered the greenest. For most products that I purchase, I weigh the impact of the purchase according to my own social and environmental criteria. My default criteria is to support local business, though they must offer competitive advantages versus other suppliers.
4. How does your business minimize the environmental impact of its operations?

I operate my business out of my home, thereby greatly reducing my company's eco footprint through reduced energy consumption and transportation. I use 100% post-consumer recycled paper for my printing and print only when necessary. And I apply the same efforts to reduce my environmental impact in my business as I do in my home: recycling everything possible, using compact florescent lights, and reducing waste through composting.
5. How does your business demonstrate ethical business conduct?

One of my intentions in running my own business is to do business "consciously". I have no formal means (like a Board of Directors or third party accounting procedures) to demonstrate the ethical nature of how I do business; however, I am committed to conducting my business in a way that reflects my personal integrity. Having said that, I may make an attempt to create an outline for my clients of how I approach doing business.
6. What strategic community partnerships does your company have in place?

Tech House is a member of Calgary Dollars, increasing access to services in Calgary through our local currency system, and a proud member of REAP Business Association.
7. What policy or guidelines exist to support charitable contributions?

My way of giving back is to offer non-profit organizations a special rate which is up to 22.5% off my regular rate. I also donate 1% of my business earnings to charity.
8. How many people do you employ locally?

1

I am the sole full time employee of Tech House and we collaborate with other contractors and independent businesses as required.
9. In what ways does your business demonstrate its commitment to employee health and safety?

As I've built my business over the years, my health was not always given the priority it deserved and I paid the price. This experience has been invaluable and taught me how crucial it is to maintain good health. I have since limited my hours and do my best towards taking evenings and weekends off.
10. In what ways does your business demonstrate its commitment to employee development and job satisfaction?

Again being the sole employee of my business, I provide ample opportunity for my own professional and personal development.
11. How does your business support employees to lead balanced lives and be active participants in their communities?

I try not to work evenings and weekends to ensure that I don't burn myself out.