Green Envy: Qualcomm's Corporate Sustainability Program
Founded by one of San Diego’s business pioneers, Irwin Jacobs, Qualcomm frequently shows up on the Forbes top 100 “Best Companies to work for” list. It may be less well known for its leadership on sustainability, but many of the company’s green practices are recognized by experts as cutting edge in the field. Qualcomm’s focus on being a great place to work seems to have translated well into doing the right thing for the environment, and at the same time, the company’s bottom line. From their Gold LEED Certified campus site, to their herb garden, and sustainable kitchen, Qualcomm’s Corporate Sustainability Program has established itself as a role model for other corporations and businesses alike.
Equinox Center was invited to visit Qualcomm by Jennifer Arrowsmith, Senior Corporate Giving Representative, to learn about Qualcomm’s corporate sustainability. The tour began at the Jacob Irwin building, where Gail Welch, Senior Manager of Sustainability, summarized some of Qualcomm’s accomplishments in the sustainability realm so far.
- In 2009 Qualcomm saved 18 million gallons of water by turning to water conservation techniques, and maximizing the use of reclaimed water wherever possible.
- A combined heat and power system provides 90% of the electricity needs of the campus, including photovoltaic solar panels which generate enough electricity to power all the lights on campus
- The cafeteria sources food from local and natural or organic suppliers and the campus hosts a weekly on-site farmers market to encourage employees to buy locally
- The cleaning team uses non-toxic cleaning supplies and techniques in all buildings
- Alternatively fueled shuttles provide transportation to employees between campus buildings
- The company recycles 77% of the hazardous waste generated
The argument against putting effort into sustainability, in most cases, is cost. Although, sustainability efforts can require an initial outlay of money to implement, the payoffs in the medium and long run can be huge. Qualcomm’s efforts prove this point:
- By investing in energy efficiency, they have saved over $2.92 million in electricity costs annually, and received financial incentives from SDG&E for implementing highly efficient lighting and HVAC systems.
- By implementing their green cleaning regimen the company has saved $2.2 million
According to Jennifer Arrowsmith, going “green” is not a fad, but rather an integral part of Qualcomm’s corporate culture. The company’s sustainability efforts produce financial benefits to its shareholders, health and quality of life benefits to its employees, and broader environmental benefits to the San Diego region. This “triple bottom line” approach to business is one that is starting to catch on in the region, with Qualcomm as one of the star players.