So far, the deployment has been great (safe). I am the platoon leader for 25 soldiers, all happy to be here and finally getting to do the job they trained for. Our mission is training Iraqi soldiers and local policemen. On good days we run counter smuggling operations, interdicting drugs, firearms and explosives all with local law enforcement. It is a good fit for me.

My marketing skills come out often in the briefs, reports, brochures, presentations and other “products” I create each day. It has really helped me stand out with my command and communicate life saving information well. It may seem strange to some, but those skills may be more important than the ones I use to fight with.

Thanks for keeping up with me!

-Stephen

There is a third party organization called Green Seal, greenseal.org, that evaluates “a product or service beginning with material extraction, continuing with manufacturing and use, and ending with recycling and disposal.” Many paper companies obtain Green Seal approval and Green Seal’s logo can be found on the product packaging. In this case, when talking about paper, you can usually find this information on the company’s Web site or on the swatch books they provide.

This is the only way that I am aware that provides the consumer with “green” assurance. Otherwise, you are relying on the company to be honest.

Taking this further, I don’t think Green Seal provides any verification that the trees used in the manufacturing process come from legal logging. fsc.org notes, “The FSC certification system allows these professionals to know they are doing the right thing, and taking business away from other companies that may still be supporting illegal, unsustainable, unverified logging activities.” You should ask if your paper is FSC-certified to ensure that you are buying paper that is coming from legal logging!

Hope that helps.

Just a couple of years ago 15% recycled content was considered a green carpet. Today it is not.