SustainLane: Who Are You?
Drummond Lawson, Green Giant.
SL: How did method get started?
Drummond: Adam Lowry and Eric Ryan, two former roommates. Eric knew people wanted cleaning products they didn't have to hide under their sinks. Adam knew how to make them without any nasty toxic ingredients. Their powers combined, they set out to save the world. Enlisting the help of industry veteran Alastair Dorward, they created an entire line of home care products that were more powerful than a bottle of sodium hypochlorite. Gentler than a thousand puppy licks. Able to detox tall homes in a single afternoon. 
How is the method workplace a reflection of methods environmental/health principles?
Drummond: Our mission with our products is certainly reflected in the way we run our business. We recently received LEED certification from the USGBC. Here are some other ways we've created a work environment that's healthy for our people and the planet:
- Non-VOC paint
- Office is centrally located to promote alternative transportation
- Bike cages, lockers and showers for bike commuters
- Composting and worm bins for waste
- Method has planted 1,000 trees, offsetting the estimated 100 metric tons of CO2 emissions associated with the carbon footprint from employee commuting and air travel.
What suggestions do you have for people out there who want to "green" their workplace?
Drummond: Take it one step at a time, and don't think you need to change everything at once. There are small things businesses can do to become more sustainable. Set up recycling, composting, and garbage receptacles in common areas to make it easy for employees. Use recycled paper in the printers. Examine ways to offset the company's carbon footprint based on company size and travel.
What advice do you have for other folks who want to apply sustainable practices to their business?
Drummond: It doesn't have to be an overwhelming process. Start by examining your business' day-to-day functions, and see where you can make adjustments.
How can somebody get method cleaners?
Drummond: Method products are available at a number of retailers, including Target, Staples, Costco, Whole Foods. See our Web site for a complete list: www.methodhome.com
We can't take the credit for method's success, but there is no doubt that a great listing on SustainLane.com helped make certain method products so well known. Remember to monitor and update your listings, and always encourage your customers to review your products!
